REIMAGINING ENVIRONMENTAL PEACE: SUSTAINABLE ELECTRICITY INFRASTRUCTURE WAYLEAVES DISPUTES RESOLUTION IN KENYA

In the context of Kenya’s rapidly expanding electricity infrastructure, disputes over wayleaves between landowners and transmission or distribution licensees have emerged as a significant socio-legal and environmental challenge. These disputes arise at the intersection of infrastructure development, land rights, environmental justice, and governance, involving diverse actors and competing interests. This paper synthesizes scholarly literature, judicial precedents, and environmental perspectives to develop a justice-centred framework for reimagining peace in electricity wayleaves disputes in Kenya. It demonstrates how procedural fairness, equitable compensation, ecological stewardship, and institutional innovation can be integrated to resolve tensions and foster sustainable peace. The paper argues that hybrid dispute resolution mechanisms, participatory governance, and adaptive legal frameworks are essential for aligning energy infrastructure development with human dignity, environmental integrity, and long-term social cohesion.