Lamu County Executive Committee Member for Tourism, Culture, Trade and Investment Aisha Miraj says the planned Dangote East Africa Refinery will significantly increase visitor numbers and demand for accommodation in the county.

She notes that hotel occupancy rose to full capacity during the three‑day preparatory period for the refinery’s groundbreaking, indicating strong early demand.

The refinery, designed to process 700,000 barrels of crude daily, is part of the LAPSSET corridor and its groundbreaking is scheduled for 30 September 2026.

Miraj expects the project to diversify Lamu’s tourism product beyond beaches, promoting cultural festivals, dhow races, sailing and local cuisine as additional attractions.

She highlights that the refinery’s mainland location will allow Lamu Island to retain its leisure‑focused identity while supporting increased marine transport demand for resort developments.

Local businesses, including accommodation providers and boat operators, are already seeing investment interest, with some investors purchasing land and vessels despite rising property prices.

The county plans to collaborate with the Kenya Tourism Board, the Tourism Fund and neighboring coastal counties to capture spill‑over benefits and ensure coordinated development.

Improved air connectivity is also a priority; Miraj has written to airlines for additional flights and welcomes Kenya Airports Authority’s upgrades to Manda Airport that could enable night operations.

She believes the refinery‑driven growth will help change the perception of Lamu, which has faced security advisories, by showcasing a safer, investment‑friendly environment.