Business
Kenya, Ethiopia and South Sudan launch construction of massive port
The project is expected to be funded by regional financial institutions, governments and international lenders, with China believed to have a major stake.
Kibaki, in a speech thanking organizations including the World Bank, African Development Bank and African Union, singled out China as being “extremely supportive” of the project.
Kenya is already the regional economic powerhouse, but argues its existing main transport corridor, built 100 years ago was no longer spurring more development.
However, Lamu residents protest that the huge port, although located some 10 kilometres (six miles) from the UNESCO-listed island, will impact on their livelihoods and accuse the government of ignoring their concerns.
“The demands for the rights of Lamu people have fallen on deaf ears,” said a statement by Save Lamu, a coalition of local community groups in Lamu.
“We are greatly concerned that the lack of transparency, secrecy and poor accountability in the way the project is being implemented is a dismal reflection of our rights as governed by the constitution,” it added.
Kibaki said precautions must be taken to ensure there is “minimal interference with the delicate ecosystem and cultural heritage.”
