Construction has begun on a planned mega-refinery in Kenya’s Lamu, prompting opposition from residents, environmental organisations, fishermen and tourism workers concerned about the project’s possible effects on the island.

Nigerian businessman Aliko Dangote broke ground on the refinery on Wednesday alongside multiple heads of state. The project is described as Africa’s second-biggest oil refinery and is billed as Kenya’s largest-ever industrial project.

The company plans to have the facility operating by 2030. Supporters have linked the venture to promises of 60,000 direct and indirect jobs, as well as a training centre intended to serve 1,000 young people.

Residents question consultation

Lamu was selected as the refinery site in July, after the idea of establishing a Dangote refinery in East Africa was first raised in April. But the decision has triggered concerns about land rights and the extent to which local communities were consulted.

Dozens of people gathered in Lamu Old Town on Tuesday and chanted “Haki Yetu”, meaning “Our rights”. Some people have also taken the project to court, fearing their land rights will not be respected.

Kenyan President William Ruto promised that a rigorous environmental study would be carried out. He also told residents that their rights would be protected and their voices heard.

However, local representatives criticised the timing of the study and the consultation process. Salwa Mahmoud said, “The study was to be conducted before the excavation and digging.” Khelef Khalifa said, “You don’t negotiate after signing a contract. You negotiate before.”

Said Hassan also questioned the level of public participation, saying, “It is too late. There was no public participation, the communities were not involved from the beginning. We don’t believe they will do all these things.”

Fears for coastal economy

Environmental organisations, including Greenpeace, have warned that the refinery could damage what they describe as one of East Africa’s most fragile coastal ecosystems.

Fishermen and tourism workers are also concerned about the effect on their livelihoods. Lamu is known for its 12th-century Old Town, traditional dhow boats and beaches. Tourism operator Famau said the sector supports 90 percent of the island and warned that visitors come for the area’s culture “not for the oil tankers.”

Dangote has rejected the criticism. He described opponents as “people who don’t want the development of Africa” and said on Wednesday, “Anybody who wants to cause trouble, we are ready for his trouble and will give him a headache.”

Ruto initially referred to people challenging the project in court as “extortionists”, while also promising that the concerns and rights of Lamu residents would be addressed.

The project’s expected economic benefits and potential environmental and social effects remain central to the dispute as plans move forward.