Kenyan court halts Dangote refinery work as firm says groundbreaking holds

The Malindi Environment and Land Court in Kenya has halted construction of the proposed Dangote refinery in Lamu County until a further hearing. This decision was made after local farmers and residents of Chandavai, in the region, opposed the project due to alleged "forceful eviction" and property destruction. Judge Jane Onyango ordered that "the status quo prevailing" be maintained, with further directions to follow on October 14.

Dangote and the Kenyan authorities have yet to adhere to Kenya's environmental code and constitutional requirements for public participation, the petitioners argued. Dangote Group, however, stated that the court has not halted the groundbreaking ceremony, but activities at the site may be affected pending the October 14 hearing.

President William Ruto confirmed that his government is fast-tracking administrative processes for the proposed refinery, emphasizing its potential as a regional project that would create jobs and boost the region's workforce.