Lamu residents demand compensation and jobs in LAPSSET project
By Kiprono Keileb, January 22, 2026Lamu residents have renewed calls for long-overdue land compensation and inclusion in employment opportunities under the Lamu Port–South Sudan–Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor project.
In a statement shared on X on Thursday, January 22, 2026, by Parliament, community members say families displaced by the mega infrastructure development have waited for years without payment, while access to some parcels of land remains restricted.
A resident, Mzee Mohammed Ali, explained the community’s concerns about participation in project decisions.
“Lamu residents have renewed calls for land compensation, inclusive employment and stronger community participation in the Lamu Port–South Sudan–Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor project, saying families displaced by project activities have waited for years without payment while access to some parcels remains restricted,” part of a statement by Parliament on Facebook reads.
The community fears that new components of the project are being rolled out without addressing existing grievances, leaving locals sidelined in decisions affecting their land and livelihoods.
A resident, Famao Idd Famao, highlighted the ongoing delay in promised payments.
“LAPSSET authority promised to pay them compensation for land since 2020 after three months, but up to date, it has never happened,” Famao Idd said.
Youth inclusion is also a key concern, with residents calling for clear guarantees that local young people will benefit from jobs once the LAPSSET project is operational.
Mama Amina emphasised the importance of employment opportunities for local children.
“We want when the LAPSSET project is completed, our children should be given job opportunities in all components of the LAPSSET project,” Mama Amina said.
Women leaders have added their voices, urging project authorities and contractors to ensure gender-inclusive hiring and to move beyond informal, low-paying roles around the port.
Mama Angeline stressed the need for equality in employment opportunities.
“There should be gender parity in employment in the LAPSSET project,” Mama Angelina said.