Ruto warns Dangote to keep 40-month deadline for Ksh2.2T Lamu refinery

President William Ruto has cautioned Aliko Dangote to adhere to the 40-month deadline he set for the completion of the Ksh2.2 trillion Lamu refinery. During the groundbreaking ceremony on September 30, 2026, Ruto emphasized that Kenyans would closely observe the timeline, following Dangote's pledge to return and officially open the refinery within 40 months.

"We have heard you, Aliko Dangote, that you have said we will be back here in 40 months to come and open this refinery," Ruto stated. The president highlighted Kenyans' habit of holding leaders accountable for their timeline announcements. "Kenyans are very good in keeping data. I want to warn you. They normally take me to task every time I give them a time frame," he remarked.

Ruto argued that clear deadlines are crucial for the successful completion of major projects. "And the only way we get things done is to have a time frame," he added. He then informed Dangote that he was "in good company," noting that Kenyans understand the importance of project deadlines. The East Africa Oil Refinery project, slated to process 700,000 barrels of crude oil daily, aims to benefit Kenya and the broader East African market.

The 40-month period provides a concrete timeframe for the project's completion, with the groundbreaking marking the start of its construction. The refinery is anticipated to enhance fuel security, decrease dependence on imported refined petroleum products, and foster economic opportunities around Lamu Port and the LAPSSET corridor.

Ruto views Dangote's 40-month commitment as a public milestone for Kenya's largest planned industrial investment.