ODM leader Dr Oburu Oginga has welcomed the planned construction of the Sh2.2 trillion Dangote refinery in Lamu, saying the project could open up new economic opportunities for the Coast region.
In a statement issued on September 29, Oburu said the refinery would boost industrial development and create jobs for local residents.
The refinery is expected to have a capacity of 700,000 barrels of oil per day, with its groundbreaking scheduled for September 30.
Oburu said the project was also linked to discussions between the late Raila Odinga and Dangote Group chairman Aliko Dangote on industrial development and Africa's economic independence.
He also praised President William Ruto for supporting the project and helping move it forward.
According to Oburu, the refinery is expected to create more than 60,000 direct and indirect jobs and provide opportunities for young people to gain technical skills and said the project could also support the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport corridor by increasing activity in shipping, logistics and other industries.
Oburu further said the refinery could attract businesses involved in petrochemicals, manufacturing, packaging and fertilizer production and called on the government and project stakeholders to ensure residents of Lamu benefit from the investment and that host communities are fairly treated.
Oburu said the project should bring jobs and business opportunities to the local community while protecting their interests.
He urged residents to support the development while calling for their concerns to be addressed as the project takes shape.
