The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has signalled plans to intensify security around the proposed Ksh2.2 trillion Dangote oil refinery and the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor amid ongoing operations in the Boni Enclave.
Central Command General Officer Commanding Major General William Kamoiro stressed the importance of protecting major infrastructure projects, workers and surrounding communities during a visit to Operation Amani Boni on Thursday, October 15.
He called for sustained vigilance and intelligence-led operations to counter security threats and maintain stability in the region.
Kamoiro’s remarks come two days after the High Court in Malindi lifted an order that had temporarily halted plans to construct the proposed refinery.
A sign at the refinery site during the groundbreaking ceremony in Lamu on September 30, 2026.
PCS
In a preliminary ruling on October 14, Justice Jane Onyango allowed the project to proceed despite a legal dispute over land ownership and environmental compliance.
133 residents filed the case, claiming the proposed facility threatens their property rights and that developers have not demonstrated compliance with environmental regulations.
The court declined to issue fresh orders maintaining the status quo, allowing construction plans to proceed as the case continues.
The 40-month project will include a larger petrochemical complex and is expected to have the capacity to process 700,000 barrels of crude oil daily, heightening the need to secure the area.
Additionally, thousands of workers, contractors and businesses will move to Lamu, increasing activity around construction sites and supporting infrastructure as work progresses.
This anticipated growth places greater importance on security measures to protect personnel, surrounding communities and critical infrastructure, including a new housing project announced by President William Ruto.
During his visit to the Boni Enclave, Kamoiro also urged military personnel to avoid gambling, predatory lending and drug abuse, warning that these practices could undermine their welfare, discipline and operational effectiveness.
Further, he called on troops to maintain physical fitness, manage their finances responsibly and use military equipment and logistical resources appropriately to sustain readiness during security operations.
Armoured vehicles unveiled by Interior CS Kithure Kindiki in Nairobi County on March 20, 2023.
Photo
Kithure Kindiki