The Kenyan government has initiated an investigation into allegations of fake titles issued on land allocated for the Lamu refinery project. Government Spokesperson Charles Owino stated that the land was acquired by the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and that families residing on the site received compensation before the property was consolidated under a mother title.
According to Owino, approximately 90 families occupying the area when the port was established received Sh1.4 billion in compensation. The land was subsequently transferred to KPA, and a mother title was issued, making it challenging for new titles to be legitimately created on the same parcel without subdivision.
Owino assured that records of the acquisition and compensation are available, showing that affected families were compensated. He emphasized that if Kenyans genuinely did not receive compensation, the government would not hesitate to provide it. The government is confident in proceeding with the refinery project, citing its legally acquired land.
The Lamu refinery project, which broke ground on September 30, 2026, is a Sh2.2 billion investment expected to significantly increase Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Kenya. The project is anticipated to generate over Sh4 billion annually, pushing the country's FDI to over Sh7 billion.
Owino highlighted the project's economic benefits, including the generation of about 1,000 megawatts of electricity. Part of the power will be used to run the refinery, while the surplus can be supplied to the national grid. The refinery will also produce by-products that can serve as raw materials for local industries, such as tyre and plastics manufacturing.
The refinery project is expected to have a positive impact on various sectors, including the revival of local industries. Kenya previously had a local tyre manufacturing plant but now relies solely on imports. The project could help revive such industries, contributing to the country's economic growth.
A team has been formed to investigate the matter, and Owino warned that those found guilty of fraud would face charges. The government is committed to ensuring that the project proceeds smoothly while addressing any concerns related to land ownership and compensation.
Key points
- The Kenyan government has launched an investigation into allegations of fake titles issued on land earmarked for the Lamu refinery project.
- The Lamu refinery project is expected to significantly increase Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Kenya and generate about 1,000 megawatts of electricity.
- The project will produce by-products that can serve as raw materials for local industries, contributing to the country's economic growth.
