Al-Shabaab attacks delay Kenya’s LAPSSET project, threatening its $25B plan to build a trade route from Lamu Port to Ethiopia and South Sudan.
Kenya’s ambitious $25 billion Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia-Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor project, designed to transform Lamu into a regional trade hub, has faced significant setbacks due to persistent attacks from al-Shabaab militants.
These security challenges have impeded construction efforts and raised concerns about the project’s timely completion.
In response to the escalating threats, government officials have underscored their commitment to safeguarding the project and ensuring its progression.
Northeastern Regional Commissioner John Otieno emphasized the project’s national importance, stating, “LAPSSET is a very important project for the country, and we cannot allow the militia to interfere with its progress.”
He further assured that security personnel have been mobilized “with full force to flush out the terrorists so that there are no more interruptions.”
Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale echoed this resolve, issuing a stern warning to al-Shabaab operatives: “As a government, we will do everything possible to make sure that we protect the citizens and the critical infrastructure, including the LAPSSET corridor and all government installations from any criminal activities, including terrorists.” He added, “Even if it means having a thousand military officers to ensure that things run smoothly, we will do it.”
To bolster security along the corridor, multi-agency teams, including the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), have been deployed.
Commander of Operation Amani Boni, Brigadier Joel Maiyo, assured contractors of their safety, noting that the presence of security troops has “significantly reduced security challenges that previously hindered the project’s progress.”
He highlighted that construction spans from Lamu to Garissa, covering 248 kilometers, with 30 kilometers of road already completed to bitumen standard.
Despite these measures, the project has experienced delays.
As of early 2025, only three of the planned 23 berths at Lamu Port have been completed, with minimal shipping activity primarily limited to livestock exports.
Chinese contractors, under frequent threat of militant attacks, have made limited progress, with only 10% of a critical road segment paved. The instability has necessitated military escorts and heavily guarded construction processes.
The Kenyan government remains steadfast in its commitment to the LAPSSET project, recognizing its potential to enhance regional trade and economic growth.
However, addressing the persistent security threats posed by al-Shabaab is crucial to realizing the project’s objectives and ensuring the safety of all stakeholders involved.
