Environment Chief Officer Geoferry Mosiria has denied claims indicating that the Neno Evangelism Centre, founded by Apostle James Maina Ng'ang'a, has been closed over pending Sh10 million land rates.
In a statement on his X account, Mosiria said their role is not to stop the gospel but to go after outstanding dues.
“Our role is not to stop the gospel but to follow up on outstanding county dues,” he said.
He disclosed that the church's land rate has been waived, even as he added that a hotel which is being operated by the church has had its Unified Business Permit paid for.
Consequently, he said the Church has been given the green light to continue with its operations.
“We’re pleased to confirm that the church has since been waived, and the hotel has paid for the Unified Business Permit,” he said.
Mosiria also added that he will continue working closely
with the residents of Nairobi to ensure the smooth running of their activities.
“We will continue working closely with all Nairobi
residents,” he added.
He made this statement days after he went viral, urging the
church’s administration to ensure that it clears the outstanding land rate debt.
Speaking on Monday, May 20, 2025, outside the Neno
Evangelism Centre in Nairobi, Mosiria gave the church three days to clear all
the outstanding land rate debt or face enforcement measures, including closure
of facilities operating without licenses.
“This ten-million debt must be cleared. The county collects
your garbage, maintains your area, and offers services, all of which require
funding,” said Mosiria.
Pastor Ng'ang'a, in a rejoinder, however, told off the Nairobi County government, saying the claim on land rate was not legitimate as Former Governor Mike Sonko exempted churches and mosques from paying the levies.
Sonko confirmed the claims and said the county has to revoke his executive order to lay land rates claim on churches and mosques in the city.
