Lamu activists call for protection of residents affected by Dangote refinery project
Lamu activists and residents are demanding stronger safeguards for communities that could be affected by the proposed Dangote oil refinery, insisting that development should not come at the expense of local livelihoods, land rights and the environment. The concerns have emerged as preparations for the multibillion-shilling refinery project gather pace, with residents calling for greater […]
Lamu residents are protesting against the proposed Dangote oil refinery, warning that local communities could suffer if the project jeopardizes their livelihoods, land rights, and the environment. Nahida Kasim of VOCAL Africa stated that residents would back projects that uplift the county but oppose developments that pose risks to their communities.
"Swala letu ni kwamba tutapinga miradi yoyote ambayo italeta maafa, na tutaunga kwa mikono miwili miradi ambayo italeta maendeleo katika gatuzi letu," Kasim said during a press conference on August 17, 2026. The debate is not just about whether to build the refinery, but who will benefit once it arrives. Lamu resident Shakir Abdala cited past experiences, saying locals have previously felt sidelined in employment.
"KPA ikaja, tukaona watu wameajiriwa kulingana na, huyu mwanasiasa ni ndugu yako, au mjomba wako, kupendeleana, huyu alikufanyia kampeni. Na je leo, Dangote Oil Refinery ikija, tutakuwa wapi sisi kama vijana?" Abdala questioned. Community leaders urge the government and investors to reserve a large share of jobs for local youth, proposing that 70% of projected positions be allocated to indigenous residents.
Another concern is the lack of transparency, with Ahmed Mohamed stating residents need more time to understand the project's potential benefits and risks. Recent reports indicate residents want meaningful participation in decision-making and a fair share of opportunities created by the investment. The refinery is expected to be a major investment in Kenya, processing around 700,000 barrels of crude oil daily, and could transform Lamu into a regional energy and logistics hub.
If completed, it would be one of Africa's largest refineries and potentially export refined petroleum products to East African countries. The project is part of the LAPSSET Corridor, which aims to boost trade and energy in the region. President William Ruto has predicted the refinery could create tens of thousands of jobs, positioning it as a solution to energy security and reduced dependence on imports.
Written by urgent.news from People Daily Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
