Ruto vows to protect Dangote refinery from extortionists

President William Ruto has pledged to safeguard Nigerian industrialist Aliko Dangote and his Sh2.2 trillion refinery investment in Lamu from extortionists attempting to hinder progress through frivolous demands and legal battles. The Kenyan leader accused a group of political insiders of orchestrating attempts to thwart the businessman, assuring that his administration would not permit vested interests to obstruct significant investments within the nation.

At Shanzu Teachers College in Kisauni Constituency, Mombasa County, Ruto highlighted his administration's commitment to creating an investor-friendly environment, emphasizing that Kenya must foster an atmosphere that encourages and safeguards business ventures. During his address, Ruto denounced those who embody values and integrity while extorting governors whenever they appear before them.

He urged Kenyans to capitalize on the opportunities that the refinery project will generate, which is expected to create 60,000 jobs during its construction phase. In addition to the refinery project, Ruto announced that the government has invested Sh40 billion in affordable housing initiatives across Mombasa County, including markets and student hostels.

The blue economy in the Coast region has received Sh15 billion in investments over the past three years, aimed at leveraging the region's economic potential. The President also stressed the significance of upgrading Mombasa County's road network, committing a record Sh70 billion towards enhancing the infrastructure to alleviate congestion.

As part of his ongoing tour on the Kenyan Coast, Ruto inspected housing projects, a ferry passenger terminal, and the Iperanyi-Mwandala Last Mile Electricity Connectivity Project, among other development initiatives. He vowed to prioritize the Mzima II water project to benefit the arid and semi-arid region of Taita-Taveta County, promising to deliver on his previous commitments.