Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has raised concern over what she describes as unlawful state acquisition of private land, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to Kenya’s real estate sector.

Speaking through X, a post was made on Friday, October 10, 2025, after attending the Real Estate Stakeholders Association’s 3rd Annual Leadership Dinner. Odhiambo stated that the real estate industry remains one of Kenya’s strongest economic pillars, contributing more than 14 per cent to the country’s GDP. However, she noted that its growth is being slowed by legal and regulatory challenges that demand urgent attention.

“The real estate sector contributes over 14% of Kenya’s GDP, but the sector continues to grapple with legal challenges stemming from unfavourable legislation, including the increase in Capital Gains Tax, and instances of unlawful state acquisition of private land, in contravention of Article 40 of the Constitution,” she said.

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Odhiambo, who joined other professionals in celebrating the association’s milestones, noted that the dinner also marked a significant moment for the industry.

“Last night, we joined the Real Estate Stakeholders Association for their 3rd Annual Leadership Dinner to celebrate key milestones. The dinner marked three years of impactful work, welcoming a new leadership team, and unveiling a five-year strategic vision,” she said.

She lauded the association’s efforts to professionalise the sector, describing its growth as a step toward greater accountability and stronger regulation.

“The Association’s institutionalisation marks an important step toward stronger regulation, economic advancement, and greater visibility for professional associations,” Odhiambo added.

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The LSK president emphasised that lawyers, as key players in real estate transactions, have a crucial role in protecting landowners and investors from unlawful takeovers and unfair policies.

“As key professional stakeholders in the real estate sector, lawyers must proactively engage in finding solutions to these issues,” she stated.

Odhiambo’s call underscores the growing demand for fair legislation and stronger legal safeguards to protect land ownership and ensure the sustainability of Kenya’s real estate sector.