Kenya's Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome has stated that the majority of the land earmarked for the Sh2 trillion Dangote East Africa Refinery in Lamu is public land. This assertion aligns with President William Ruto's earlier remarks that the site belongs to the state. The project, launched by President Ruto last week, involves multiple agencies, including the ministries of lands, transport, defence, and interior, to ensure coordinated implementation.
According to President Ruto, the government has secured approximately 10,000 acres for the refinery and is seeking an additional 3,000 acres for a planned special economic zone. The refinery, being built by Nigerian businessman Aliko Dangote, is projected to process 700,000 barrels of crude oil per day. This significant investment aims to boost Kenya's energy sector and economic growth.
Residents of the Chandavai area filed a case on September 28 at the Malindi Environment and Land Court, seeking to halt development on parcel LR No. 13061, claiming ancestral occupation and lack of compensation. The court ordered the parties to maintain the status quo on the disputed parcel until a hearing scheduled for October 14, but did not stop the refinery's groundbreaking.
Wahome assured that genuine squatters and landowners can approach the Office of the President, the National Land Commission, or the Ministry of Lands for assistance. She noted that the government already holds data on legitimate claims. This move aims to address concerns of those who may have legitimate claims to the land.
However, Wahome warned that some legal challenges are being "planted by the opponents and the enemies of development," suggesting deliberate attempts to obstruct the project. She emphasized the government's commitment to the refinery project, which is seen as a significant economic driver for the country.
The Dangote refinery project has garnered significant attention due to its potential impact on Kenya's economy and energy sector. With a projected capacity to process 700,000 barrels of crude oil per day, the refinery is expected to reduce Kenya's reliance on imported petroleum products and create new job opportunities.
As the project moves forward, the government faces the challenge of balancing the interests of various stakeholders, including local communities, investors, and environmental groups. The Ministry of Lands and other agencies will need to work closely with these groups to ensure that the project is implemented in a responsible and sustainable manner.
Key points
- The Kenyan government asserts that most of the Dangote refinery site in Lamu is state land.
- The refinery project has faced legal challenges from local residents claiming ancestral occupation and lack of compensation.
- The government has warned that some legal challenges are being orchestrated by opponents of the project.
