Manda Airstrip in Lamu is undergoing major upgrades to accommodate the upcoming launch of the East African oil refinery, a key infrastructure step for the $17 billion project. The airstrip, located in the coastal county, is being renovated to handle increased traffic from dignitaries and officials expected for the groundbreaking ceremony.
Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote has emphasized the importance of listing the Lamu refinery on the Nairobi Securities Exchange, advocating for African companies to raise capital locally. His remarks during a meeting with investors highlight the economic ambitions behind the project, which aims to boost regional energy production and trade.
Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto has called the Dangote Petroleum Refinery in Lagos a "masterpiece of science, engineering and art," underscoring Kenya's commitment to the Lamu project. The government is working closely with Dangote Group to ensure the refinery's success, which is seen as a major step toward economic integration across East Africa.
The Lamu refinery, once operational, is expected to significantly enhance regional energy security and create thousands of jobs. Infrastructure developments like the airstrip upgrades reflect the growing momentum behind the project, which remains a flagship initiative for both Kenya and Nigeria.
