Kenyan President William Ruto has defended the Dangote East Africa Oil Refinery project in Lamu, stating that it will proceed despite court orders and resistance from some residents. During a tour of Kilifi and Kwale counties, Ruto accused "disgruntled opposition sponsors" of attempting to undermine the investment. The project, led by Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote, aims to invest Ksh.2 trillion in the refinery.
President Ruto's comments come after residents of Chandavai in Lamu staged demonstrations against the groundbreaking of the project, demanding compensation for the 7,000-acre piece of land. Ruto responded to the residents, stating that he would not allow another incident of "sabotage" against investors. He also accused the opposition of disrupting the project, claiming that their demands for shares in the deal were rejected.
The President came to Dangote's defence, claiming that the businessman had been frustrated multiple times before relocating some investments to other countries during retired President Uhuru Kenyatta's tenure. Ruto cited an example where Dangote wanted to set up a cement company in Kenya but was deterred by conditions, leading him to invest elsewhere.
Ruto maintained that the project would go ahead despite court orders, stating that he was aware of attempts to undermine Dangote's investment. He emphasized that foreign direct investment would increase, with projections of between USD 6-7 billion. The President stressed that investors seek incentives, not conditions.
The Dangote East Africa Oil Refinery project has faced resistance from some residents, who have filed court cases against the project. However, President Ruto remains committed to seeing the project through, citing its potential to boost Kenya's economy.
During his tour, President Ruto also launched several projects in the region, including the flagging off of electrification materials for Chungani Village in Msambweni Constituency. The electrification project is being implemented by the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation.
The President's visit to the region comes as the government seeks to boost investment and development in the area. With the Dangote refinery project expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth, President Ruto's administration is keen to ensure its success.
Key points
- The Dangote East Africa Oil Refinery project will proceed despite court orders and resistance from some residents.
- President Ruto accuses the opposition of disrupting the project, claiming that their demands for shares in the deal were rejected.
- The project aims to invest Ksh.2 trillion in the refinery and create jobs, stimulating economic growth in the region.
