Dangote Responds to Court Halt on Kenya Refinery Project

Aliko Dangote, President and Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Industries Limited, commented on a Kenyan court order that temporarily halted activities at the proposed Dangote refinery in Lamu County. The Malindi Environment and Land Court issued the order on September 25, requiring that the status quo at the site be maintained pending further hearings on a case brought by farmers and residents of Chandavai.

The petitioners allege that the refinery's development involves the forceful eviction of residents and destruction of properties, without a resettlement plan. Dangote described the court's action as typical in Africa and stated that his group is prepared to confront any opposition.

He recalled similar challenges faced in other African countries, asserting confidence in knowing the individuals behind the attempts to frustrate their investments. The court is set to provide further directions on the matter on October 14, with the lawyer for the petitioners indicating that construction should not commence until then.