President William Ruto has assured Lamu residents that their concerns over land ownership, jobs, local businesses, fishing, water, environment, and cultural heritage will be addressed as the Dangote East Africa Petroleum Refinery project moves ahead. He made these remarks during the groundbreaking ceremony of the refinery at Mokowe, Lamu County, on September 30, 2026. The project, valued at Sh2.2 trillion, aims to process up to 700,000 barrels of crude oil daily and is expected to create up to 60,000 direct and indirect jobs.
The refinery has been facing opposition from some Lamu residents who claim that the land used for the project is their ancestral property. A court has also directed that no changes be made to the disputed land as a legal challenge continues. Ruto acknowledged the residents' concerns, stating that they are entitled to seek clear answers about the impact of the refinery on their communities. He emphasized that the government will deal with these concerns as the project is developed.
Ruto assured the residents that their interests will be taken care of, their rights will be protected, and their voices will be heard throughout the development and operation of the refinery. He also stated that land matters will be handled lawfully and fairly, and environmental and social impacts will be assessed rigorously. The President urged the government and developers to put in place clear systems for recruitment and training to ensure that local communities benefit from the project.
The Dangote East Africa Petroleum Refinery is a major industrial and energy project for Kenya and the wider East African region. Ruto called for local enterprises to secure a share of the business generated by the refinery, saying communities should be prepared to meet the standards and needs of the project. He also announced plans for a proposed new mainland town and assessed how the Affordable Housing Programme could cater to workers and families expected to come to the area.
Ruto emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust throughout the development and operation of the refinery. He said a channel will be maintained to allow residents, businesses, and community groups to present their concerns and receive responses. The President also urged technical and vocational institutions and universities to prepare the welders, technicians, engineers, and managers needed for the project.
The project is expected to bring new jobs, businesses, infrastructure, and services to Lamu while ensuring that communities affected by the project remain protected. Ruto stated that the government will follow the law in dealing with land matters and ensure that environmental and social effects of the project are properly examined. He also called for clear recruitment and training plans to ensure that young people from Lamu and neighboring counties get a fair chance to learn skills and compete for jobs.
The groundbreaking ceremony marks a significant milestone in the development of the Dangote East Africa Petroleum Refinery. Despite the challenges and concerns, Ruto expressed optimism that the project will bring benefits to the local community and the wider region. The President's assurances aim to alleviate fears and demonstrate the government's commitment to responsible development and protecting the interests of affected communities.
Key points
- The Dangote East Africa Petroleum Refinery is expected to create up to 60,000 direct and indirect jobs.
- President Ruto assured Lamu residents that their concerns over land ownership, jobs, and environmental safeguards will be addressed.
- The refinery project is valued at Sh2.2 trillion and aims to process up to 700,000 barrels of crude oil daily.
