Lamu residents, activists protest against proposed coal plant
The demonstrators voiced strong opposition to the project, citing concerns over its threat to the fragile marine ecosystem, which serves as a primary source of livelihood for many locals.
Activists from Muslims for Human Rights (MUHURI), in collaboration with Save Lamu, joined residents of Lamu County on Wednesday to protest against the proposed construction of a coal-fired power plant.
The demonstrators voiced strong opposition to the project, citing concerns over its threat to the fragile marine ecosystem, which serves as a primary source of livelihood for many locals.
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"As the women and young people of Lamu, we will not allow the construction of a coal plant that threatens both our well-being and that of our generations," said Kauthar Famau Abubakar, MUHURI's Coordinator for Lamu County
She went on to explain that the project's promise of short-term rewards can in no way compensate for the long-term adverse effects it is likely to cause to the community.
"We urge the government and all the citizens of Kenya to stand with us in this noble cause. If we keep quiet now, who will listen to our latter cries of distress," Kauthar said.
Her sentiments were echoed by Save Lamu's Chairperson Somo Mohammed who rallied behind job creation initiatives that do not negatively affect the residents.
"Although many young people in Lamu are currently unemployed, we vehemently oppose any project that will harm us in the long run," stated Somo.
The demonstration comes amid ongoing legal battles pitting Save Lamu against a private company called Amu Power.
In 2019, the National Environment Tribunal revoked the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) license issued to Amu Power for the construction of the 1050 MW coal-fired plant in Kwasasi.
Despite this setback, Amu Power filed an appeal seeking to overturn the decision. The matter is now set to be heard by the Environment and Land Court in Malindi on Thursday, February 6, 2025.
On their part, MUHURI and Save Lamu remain bullish that the decision will be in their favour for the benefit of the community.
"Lamu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in culture, history, and biodiversity. Many residents rely on the ocean for their livelihoods, and a coal plant threatens not just the marine ecosystem but also the fishing industries and tourism, both vital to the local economy," read a statement from MUHURI.
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