President William Ruto has launched a strong defence of the Sh2.2 trillion Dangote East Africa Petroleum Refinery, accusing some of its critics of attempting to frustrate investment and extort the government.
Speaking during his tour of the Coast, Ruto maintained that his administration would not be intimidated by opposition to the Lamu-based project, which was officially launched on Wednesday, September 30.
The President described some of those sponsoring criticism and legal challenges against the refinery as “extortionists”, alleging that they were seeking opportunities to pressure investors for personal gain.
Ruto said his administration would protect investors and ensure that major development projects proceed despite what he termed attempts to derail them.
The President’s remarks come amid ongoing scrutiny of the refinery over land ownership, compensation and environmental concerns.
A Malindi Environment and Land Court has ordered parties to maintain the status quo over disputed land linked to the project, with the matter scheduled for hearing on October 14, 2026.
The refinery, being developed by Nigerian industrialist Aliko Dangote, is planned to have a capacity of 700,000 barrels of crude oil per day and is expected to supply petroleum products to Kenya and other markets in the region.
The project is estimated at about $16 billion, equivalent to roughly Sh2.1–2.2 trillion.
Ruto has repeatedly presented the investment as a major component of Kenya’s industrialisation and energy-security agenda, arguing that it will attract private capital, create jobs and increase local value addition.
The President’s latest comments are likely to intensify the debate surrounding the refinery, with government supporters highlighting its potential economic benefits while critics continue to demand greater transparency and safeguards for affected communities.
The political dimension of the project has also grown, with Coast leaders publicly backing the administration’s investment agenda as the country heads towards the 2027 General Election.
