UoN Faculty of Built Environment Participates in 5th Regional Research Conference

The Faculty of Built Environment and Design (FBED) at the University of Nairobi proudly participated in the 5th Regional Research Conference, held from 19th and 20th August 2026 at the Kenya School of Government kabete- Nairobi.

Convened by the National Land Commission (NLC) under the theme “Strengthening Land Governance for Sustainable National Economic Development,” the two-day conference brought together researchers, policymakers, practitioners and other stakeholders to exchange ideas, share research findings and explore practical solutions to land governance challenges.

A key highlight of the University of Nairobi's participation was the Faculty's exhibition booth, which provided an opportunity for stakeholders and conference participants to interact with researchers and learn more about ongoing innovations. The Faculty showcased its work under the theme “Smart Subdivision and Compact Rural Settlement for Sustainable Rural Agriculture,” demonstrating how research, planning and innovative land-use approaches can contribute to sustainable rural development and agricultural productivity.

In his keynote address, the Chairperson of the National Land Commission, Dr. Abdillahi Saggaf Alawy, emphasized the central role of land as a critical factor of production and the foundation for major development activities. He noted that land remains essential to infrastructure development, housing, industrialization, energy production and urban development, placing the Commission in a strategic position in supporting Kenya's national development agenda.

The CEO of the National Land Commission, Chrp. Kabale Tache, highlighted the significance of the conference as an important platform for sharing research findings, promoting dialogue and strengthening collaboration among researchers, policymakers, practitioners and other stakeholders in the land and natural resource sectors. He noted that the conference continues to provide an opportunity for research and knowledge to inform practical solutions and policy.

Adding to the discussion, Commissioner Hon. Esther Murugi, EGH, Chairperson of the Land Use Planning, Research and Counties Coordination Committee (LUPRCC), underscored the importance of linking effective land governance with the country's development goals. She emphasized that sound land governance is key to unlocking the potential of land for investment and development in agriculture, infrastructure, housing, industrialization and other sectors of the economy.

The University of Nairobi's commitment to research and collaboration was also highlighted in the Vice-Chancellor's remarks, which were delivered on his behalf by Dr. James Kaoga. The remarks emphasized the University's contribution through peer-reviewed research, academic leadership and active participation by scholars from the Faculty of Built Environment and Design and allied units in land administration, spatial planning and geospatial science. University researchers also contributed to discussions on key areas, including digital land governance, agricultural investment and land tenure.

Through its active participation, the Faculty of Built Environment and Design reaffirmed its commitment to research, innovation and collaboration in addressing emerging challenges in land governance, planning and sustainable development. The conference provided a valuable platform for the Faculty and the University of Nairobi to engage with key stakeholders, showcase innovative research and contribute to conversations shaping the future of land governance and sustainable national development in Kenya and the wider region.

The Faculty remains committed to turning research and innovation into practical solutions for a sustainable built environment and a better future for communities.