ArdhiSasa: A Guide to Kenya’s Digital Land Management System

In April 2021, the Kenyan government launched ArdhiSasa, a revolutionary digital platform designed to digitize land records and streamline property transactions. Developed through a collaboration between the Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning (MoLPP) and the National Land Commission (NLC), it marks the end of the manual, paper-based era at Ardhi House.

1. What is ArdhiSasa?

ArdhiSasa (Swahili for "Land Now") is the National Land Information Management System (NLIMS). It acts as a one-stop digital shop where citizens, legal professionals, and financial institutions can interact with land registries electronically.

Initially rolled out in Nairobi, the system is gradually expanding to other counties including Kiambu, Machakos, Kajiado, Nakuru, and more.

2. Key Services Offered

The platform covers almost every aspect of land administration:

• Land Registration: Conduct official searches, apply for land transfers, and register charges (mortgages) or cautions.
• Land Administration: Manage land rent payments, lease extensions, and renewals.
• Physical Planning: Apply for development approvals, subdivision of land, and change of user.
• Survey and Mapping: Access Registry Index Maps (RIMs) and apply for boundary fixings.
• Valuation: Request government valuations for stamp duty or asset assessment.

3. Why it Matters for Property Owners

The shift to ArdhiSasa was driven by the need to solve historical challenges in the Kenyan land sector:

• Elimination of Fraud: Digital records prevent "missing files" and double allocations.
• Transparency: Every transaction leaves a digital audit trail, reducing the influence of unregulated middlemen.
• Speed: Processes that used to take months (like land searches) can now be completed in days or even hours.
• Accessibility: You can access land services from anywhere in the world, which is a major win for the Kenyan diaspora.

4. How to Get Started (The Registration Process)

To use any service, you must first register an account.

Step 1: Create an Account

Visit ardhisasa.go.ke. You can register as an Individual, a Company, or a Professional (Surveyor, Advocate, etc.).

• Requirements: You will need your National ID Serial Number (not just the ID number), a valid email address, and a phone number registered in your name.

Step 2: Verification

The system uses Integrated Population Registration Services (IPRS) to verify your identity. You will receive an OTP (One-Time Password) on your phone to complete the registration.

Step 3: Profile Completion

Once logged in, you must upload a passport-sized photo and a copy of your ID. For professionals, additional practicing certificates are required for account upgrades.

Step 4: Adding Your Property

If you already own land, you may need to "initiate a claim" to link your property to your digital profile. This involves uploading your title deed for the registry to verify and digitize.

5. Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Use the Right Browser: The portal performs best on updated versions of Chrome or Firefox.
• Document Quality: Ensure all scanned documents (titles, IDs, PIN certificates) are clear and in PDF format.
• Consult Professionals: While you can conduct a search yourself, complex transfers still require a certified conveyance advocate to "lodge" the documents on the platform.

ArdhiSasa is the backbone of Kenya's modern real estate market. By embracing this digital shift, you are not just making your life easier—you are securing your investment with the highest level of government-backed technology.