Residents of Lamu are cautiously optimistic about plans by Africa's richest man, Aliko Dangote, to build a 700,000 barrel per day oil refinery in the county. Despite the potential for job creation and economic growth, past experiences with mega projects have fostered wariness.

• The proposed refinery, to be financed by Dangote Group, aims to reduce East Africa's dependence on imported fuels.
• Local leaders and residents are demanding transparency and meaningful public participation, citing unresolved compensation issues from the Lamu Port South Sudan Ethiopia Transport (Lapsset) project.
• The project is seen as a "game changer" with the potential to significantly boost the region's economy, provided local needs and concerns are addressed.