President William Ruto has assured residents of Lamu that their interests will be protected as construction of the proposed Dangote East Africa Refinery gets underway.
Speaking during the refinery’s groundbreaking ceremony in Lamu on Wednesday, September 30, Ruto acknowledged concerns among residents over land, employment, fishing and the environmental impact of the multi-billion-shilling project.
The president said residents were entitled to ask how the refinery would affect their lives and livelihoods.
“Who will get the jobs? Will local businesses win contracts? What will happen to our land? Will our fishermen keep their livelihoods?” Ruto posed.
He also highlighted concerns over water, the coastline, mangroves and Lamu’s cultural heritage.
Ruto said such questions should not be viewed as opposition to development, arguing that responsible development must address the concerns of communities living around major projects.
“So let me give you my assurance. Your interests will be taken care of. Your rights will be protected. Your voice will be heard, from today until the day this refinery runs, and beyond,” he said.
Dangote refinery jobs for Lamu residents
Ruto said current estimates indicated that the refinery project could create up to 60,000 direct and indirect jobs.
He directed that clear recruitment and training programmes be established to prepare Kenyans for employment opportunities expected to emerge from the project.
He said technical and vocational institutions and universities should prepare welders, technicians, engineers and managers who will be required during construction and operation.
“Young people from Lamu, neighbouring counties and Kenya must get a fair chance to learn skills and compete fairly for jobs,” Ruto said.
The president also said the project should create opportunities for local businesses, noting that a development of its scale would require transport, food, accommodation, maintenance, construction materials, logistics and professional services.
He further said the government would advance planning for a proposed new town on the mainland and explore how the Affordable Housing Programme could help meet increased demand for housing.
Ruto said residents, businesses and community-based organisations should also have a permanent channel through which they can raise concerns and receive responses from the government, county administration and developer.
