Kindiki heads to Lamu for refinery groundbreaking - September 2026

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki is heading to Lamu county for a significant groundbreaking ceremony as President William Ruto officially launches the construction of the Dangote East Africa Refinery, marking a major economic development for Kenya. Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote has stated that the Lamu refinery project is the second fastest project his company has launched, with the refinery potential to create 60,000 jobs. Meanwhile, a group of landowners in Lamu County has initiated legal action, suing the National Land Commission and the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority over alleged inadequate compensation for land earmarked for the proposed Lamu oil refinery project. Additionally, Kenyan bishops have called on President William Ruto to clarify issues surrounding the proposed Dangote oil refinery in Lamu County, while still supporting its progression. Separately, Thika Town MP Alice Ng'ang'a has urged political leaders to refrain from politicizing the Dangote Refinery project. Opposition leaders have expressed concerns that the process of launching the Dangote oil refinery lacks accountability, accusing President William Ruto of pursuing personal interests. President William Ruto also issued a stern warning to brokers and extortionists who might attempt to disrupt investments in the country, specifically mentioning the Lamu oil refinery project.