The recent resolution of the court case that pitted the government and the fishing community in Lamu is very welcome news for the progress of the Lapsset development project.
The vetting of some 4,000 fishermen for compensation by the EACC and KPA will now put paid to fears by residents that the project was not meant to benefit the community. However, the journey to this resolution has been fraught with challenges and debates, particularly concerning environmental sustainability and community welfare.
To understand the significance of the recent court ruling and compensation agreement, it's essential to contextualise it within the broader framework of the Lamu Port South Sudan Ethiopia Transport Corridor project.
Conceived in 2012, Lapsset is a transformative infrastructure project encompassing a deep-sea port in Lamu, a standard gauge railway connecting Kenya to South Sudan and Ethiopia, a road network, oil pipelines, an oil refinery and resort cities.
Lapsset is a cornerstone of Kenya's Vision 2030, aiming to achieve a more equitable distribution of resources and development across the nation. The Lapsset Corridor Development Authority spearheads project implementation, with China Communication Construction Company as the contractor.
Significant progress has been made on the Lamu port itself. The first three berths are complete, with Berth 1 operational since 2021. Construction of a liquid bulk berth and an agri-bulk berth is planned, with feasibility studies and Public-Private Partnership models currently under development.
The recent court ruling, in favour of the fishermen, underscores the importance of adherence to constitutional and legal provisions in mega-infrastructure projects like Lapsset. It serves as a reminder of the need for inclusive and people-driven processes, especially in environmental and social impact assessments. The resolution of this dispute sets a precedent for equitable compensation and community involvement in future project phases.
Looking beyond the port infrastructure, the Lapsset project holds immense potential for regional development and economic prosperity. From roads and railways to pipelines and resort cities, the corridor promises to unlock opportunities across various sectors.
Furthermore, the establishment of resort cities and the development of the blue economy are poised to stimulate tourism and sustainable resource utilisation. These endeavours not only promise economic dividends but also hold the potential for job creation and community empowerment, transforming livelihoods in the region.
However, amidst the optimism, it's imperative to address environmental concerns and ensure the sustainability of the project. The restoration of degraded ecosystems, such as the mangrove forests in Lamu, must be prioritised.
During the construction process of the berths, the contractor has taken many beneficial measures to protect the mangrove forest, such as placing pallets in areas where oil spills may occur to prevent oil from entering the sea, sampling and testing the seawater in the construction area every month, focusing on changes in the marine environment and inviting experts to regularly monitor the growth of the mangrove forest around the project.
With the efforts of the contractor, the mangrove forests around the project have grown well, as evidenced by the discovery of many saplings in the newly constructed stone crevices of the embankment.
Collaborative efforts between project contractors, governmental agencies and local stakeholders are essential for mitigating environmental impacts and promoting ecological resilience. Project preparation activities, like environmental and social impact assessments, are costly and can stall progress.
Financial support through initiatives like PIDA-PAP II and the African Union's Presidential Infrastructure Championing Initiative can address this hurdle. Moreover, effective communication and stakeholder engagement are paramount for fostering transparency and building trust within communities.
CCCC, as the main project contractor, must demonstrate its commitment to corporate social responsibility and environmental stewardship. By actively involving local inhabitants in decision-making processes and conservation initiatives, the project can foster a sense of ownership and mutual benefit.
Resource allocation is another challenge. Equipping Lamu port and completing crucial sections of the Isiolo-Lokichar road, a key link to Juba, require significant investment. The African Union can play a vital role in mobilising resources, given Lapsset's contribution to continental integration.
Border disputes and comprehensive stakeholder engagement also require attention. The AU can facilitate discussions on border issues and host infrastructure summits to foster a collaborative approach for the East-West Trans Africa Highway project, a larger initiative incorporating Lapsset.
The resolution of the court case in Lamu marks a pivotal moment in the journey of the Lapsset project. It underscores the importance of balancing development aspirations with environmental preservation and community welfare.
As the project moves forward, it is imperative to uphold principles of inclusivity, sustainability and accountability. By harnessing the transformative potential of the Lapsset Corridor while addressing socio-environmental concerns, we can pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future for the region.
Strategic communications specialist in the transport and logistics sector
