Dockworkers Union members have asked political leaders to stay away from the proposed Dangote East Africa Petroleum Refinery in Lamu, warning that dragging the project into political contests could weaken investor confidence and push back the investment.

The position was set out by union member Paul Abisa, who said the refinery should not become a subject of political disputes, personal interests or electioneering as the 2027 General Election approaches. He cited the investment value at Ksh 2.2 trillion.

President William Ruto presided over the groundbreaking ceremony at Mokowe in Lamu County on September 30, 2026. Dangote Group President and CEO Aliko Dangote attended the event alongside the President and other African leaders.

The refinery has been designed to process up to 700,000 barrels of crude oil per day. Dangote pledged to complete the facility within 40 months of the groundbreaking, putting the target at around early 2030.

Projections shared around the launch estimate roughly 60,000 direct and indirect jobs. President Ruto said construction could inject more than Sh2 billion monthly into the economy through workers’ wages.

The wider industrial complex is planned to include a 1,000-megawatt power plant, alongside fertiliser and chemical manufacturing facilities. The investment is also expected to drive infrastructure development around Lamu Port and the LAPSSET Corridor.

Alongside the economic case, union member John Anguru raised concerns about land ownership and compensation at the project site. He claimed that some portions belonged to the government and the Kenya Ports Authority, while other sections are claimed by local residents, and questioned the circumstances around some title deeds, saying the claims need clarification.

President Ruto has previously assured affected residents that land matters would be handled in accordance with the law. The union’s concerns about land and political interference remain unverified.