THE TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF KENYA

SCHOOL OF SURVEYING AND SPATIAL SCIENCES

DEPARTMENT OF GEOMATICS AND LAND MANAGEMENT

DEVELOPING A LAND INFORMATION SYSTEM DATABASE FOR OWNERSHIP,

VALUE, AND TAXATION: A CASE STUDY OF MACHAKOS MUNICIPALITY

BLOCK 1

A PROJECT SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR

THE AWARD OF A BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN LAND ADMINISTRATION

CLASS CODE: ESLQ/2018

NAME: Usi Kevin Omondi

November 2023
 Declaration
I, Usi Kevin Omondi certify that this project is my work, based on my study and research, and
that I have acknowledged all material and sources used in its preparation, whether they be books,
articles, reports, lecture notes, and any other kind of document, electronic or personal
communication.

I also certify that this project has not previously been submitted for assessment in any academic
capacity and that I have not copied in part, completely, or otherwise plagiarized the work of
other persons.

I confirm that I have identified and declared all possible conflicts that I may have. Signed and
submitted

Signature: ___________________

Date: ___________________

Supervisor’s Endorsement

I have supervised and reviewed this project proposal and endorse it for submission to the School
of Surveying and Geospatial Sciences.

Supervisor’s Name:
Signature: ______________
Date: ___________________
 Acknowledgment

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to several individuals and institutions

whose invaluable support has been instrumental throughout my project research. My deepest

thanks go to my project supervisor, Mr. For his good guidance and mentorship which have been

pivotal in shaping the direction of my research and fostering my academic growth. I am

immensely grateful to the dedicated staff at the school library whose tireless assistance and

access to resources have greatly enriched my research.

I also want to acknowledge my classmates' collaborative spirit and contributions, whose insights

and help have made this project both fulfilling and enriching.

Lastly, I sincerely appreciate the schools of Survey and Spatial Sciences whose expertise and

resources have been fundamental in enhancing the depth and quality of my studies.
Abstract
 CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background and Context

Convergence of technology with land administration and management is critical to building a

comprehensive Land Information System (LIS) database for ownership, value assessment, and
taxation reasons in Machakos Municipality Block I. Land information management has been
transformed by the shift from traditional paper-based processes to complex computer-based
systems. This project aims to combine cutting-edge land administration techniques with
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) by utilizing database technology within the LIS
framework.

Effective land management is essential for maintaining the environment, fostering social
cohesion, building infrastructure, and achieving economic success. It is therefore impossible to
overestimate the importance of having accurate, readily available, and up-to-date information
about land parcels and related characteristics. Utilizing modern database technology to
coordinate these functions offers the potential to improve land-related decision-making abilities,
reduce administrative burdens, and increase transparency.

1.2 Problem Statement

Despite the longstanding history of cadastral surveys in Kenya, the prevailing mode of land
record keeping remains predominantly manual and paper-based. This antiquated approach to
land information management poses several challenges. The cumbersome nature of manual
record keeping and retrieval leads to inefficiencies, delays, and potential errors. Moreover, the
lack of an integrated and digital platform hinders seamless communication and collaboration
among various stakeholders involved in land transactions.

Inefficiencies in the existing land administration systems have adverse implications. Timely
access to accurate land data is crucial for both public and private sector entities, ranging from
investors and developers to planners and government agencies. The absence of a robust digital
infrastructure impedes effective land use planning, hampers economic growth, and fosters an
environment susceptible to land disputes and fraud.
1.3 Objectives

1.3.1 Main Objective:

To develop a tailored GIS-based Land Information System database for Machakos Municipality
Block I, integrating spatial and non-spatial attributes of land parcels to facilitate fiscal functions
efficiently.

1.3.2 Specific Objectives:

I. To identify and catalog essential spatial and non-spatial attributes crucial for accurate
land taxation within the specified area.
II. To explore mechanisms within the Land Information System that enhance information
retrieval for registered land, supporting operations like land valuations through a user-
friendly digital interface.
III. To design a comprehensive and user-centric Land Information System specifically for
fiscal purposes, ensuring scalability, security, and easy maintenance while fulfilling core
objectives.

1.4 Significance of the Study

The significance of implementing an advanced Land Information System extends beyond mere

technological innovation. It has the potential to revolutionize the landscape of land

administration in Kenya, addressing long-standing challenges and introducing a paradigm shift in

the way land-related transactions are conducted. This research holds the promise of contributing

to national economic growth by fostering a more conducive environment for investments,

infrastructure development, and sustainable land management practices.

Furthermore, a successful implementation of the proposed Land Information System could serve

as a model for other regions and municipalities, catalyzing the adoption of similar digital

platforms across the country. By aligning with the National Land Policy and harnessing modern
technology, this study envisions a future where land information is seamlessly accessible,

reliable, and secure, thus contributing to social welfare and overall development.

1.5 Scope of the Study

This project's scope encompasses the development of a prototype Land Information System

based on cadastral surveys within Machakos municipality, specifically focusing on Block I. The

prototype will be designed to accommodate various land-related operations, including land

searches, transfers, valuations, and use planning. Data for the prototype will be sourced from the

Registry Index Map (RIM) of Machakos Municipality 161/2/1/6, which will be integrated into a

comprehensive GIS database.

The study will involve the analysis, design, and implementation of the Land Information System,

with a strong emphasis on usability, data accuracy, and system security. The prototype will be

demonstrated through query reports and outputs, showcasing its potential to improve the

efficiency, accuracy, and transparency of land administration processes.

1.6 Historical Evolution of Land Management Systems

The management of land and property rights has evolved significantly over the years.

Historically, land transactions and ownership were recorded using manual methods, often relying

on written records and local knowledge. With the expansion of urban areas, population growth,

and increased land transactions, the limitations of traditional land management became apparent.

Disputes, inefficiencies, and lack of transparency emerged as pressing issues that demanded

innovative solutions.

The advent of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) brought about a paradigm shift in land

management practices. GIS technology allowed for the integration of spatial data with non-
spatial attributes, enabling more accurate and efficient land administration. The concept of a

Land Information System emerged as a comprehensive framework that leverages GIS

capabilities to provide a holistic view of land parcels, ownership, transactions, and usage.

1.7 Technological Advancements and Land Governance

In an era characterized by digital transformation, the potential of technology to reshape land

governance is undeniable. The integration of GIS, database management, and web-based

applications has paved the way for modern Land Information Systems. These systems go beyond

mere record-keeping; they facilitate dynamic analysis, visualization, and informed decision-

making by stakeholders ranging from government agencies to private investors.

The significance of a well-designed Land Information System extends to economic growth,

social development, and environmental sustainability. Accessible and accurate land information

is essential for urban planning, infrastructure development, disaster management, and

agricultural productivity. Furthermore, a transparent and efficient land administration system

instills public trust, reduces corruption, and encourages responsible land use practices.

1.8 Rationale for Machakos Municipality Block I

The selection of Machakos Municipality Block I as the focus area for this study is underpinned

by several factors. The area represents a microcosm of the broader land management challenges

faced by many urban centers in Kenya. Rapid urbanization, population growth, and changing

land use patterns necessitate a robust and adaptable land administration system.

By addressing the specific land management complexities of Machakos Municipality Block I,

this study seeks to develop insights and solutions that can be extrapolated to other regions facing

similar challenges. The findings and recommendations arising from this project could serve as a
blueprint for enhancing land administration practices across municipalities, contributing to the

overarching goals of the National Land Policy.

1.9 Organization of the Report

This project report is structured to provide a comprehensive overview of the development of a

GIS-based Land Information System for Machakos Municipality Block I. The subsequent

chapters delve into the theoretical underpinnings, methodologies, findings, and conclusions of

the study. The organization of the report is as follows:

Chapter Two: Literature Review explores the theoretical foundations of land, land information,

land administration, and related concepts. It also reviews existing land problems in Kenya and

identifies research gaps.

Chapter Three: Methodology outlines the research approach, data collection methods, and the

step-by-step process employed in developing the Land Information System prototype.

Chapter Four: System Design and Implementation presents the detailed design of the GIS-based

Land Information System, including data modeling, database creation, and integration of spatial

and attribute data, and system architecture.

Chapter Five: Results and Discussion provides an in-depth analysis of the outcomes of the

project, including query reports, user interactions, system functionality, and user feedback.

Chapter Six: Conclusions and Recommendations summarizes the study's findings, draws

conclusions, and offers practical recommendations for the future development and

implementation of the Land Information System.