It was a defining moment for environmental justice in Africa when, on October 16, 2025, the Malindi Environment and Land Court upheld a 2019 decision to cancel the license for the proposed Lamu Coal Fired Power Plant in Kenya.
The ruling, which declared the project’s environmental license invalid, marked the end of a long legal battle led by community activists under the Save Lamu coalition.
The court found that the license was issued without proper public participation and failed to consider cleaner, sustainable energy alternatives a violation of Kenya’s environmental laws and constitutional rights to a clean and healthy environment.
“This decision is a permanent victory not just for the people of Lamu, but for Kenya and the entire continent,” environmental advocates said following the ruling. “It shows that communities have the power to stand up to powerful interests and defend their right to a safe environment.”
The Lamu case has become a blueprint for environmental litigation across Africa. Legal experts say it sets a strong precedent for other communities confronting fossil fuel projects and environmental degradation.
It demonstrates how litigation, combined with grassroots advocacy can hold corporations and state institutions accountable for climate-related decisions.
Activists behind the campaign highlight three key lessons from the struggle; Partnerships being crucial highlighting that Coalition models and collaboration ensure that local communities, like Save Lamu, are never alone in confronting major corporations or state-backed projects.
Inaction not being an option; where every citizen plays a role as a community watchdog, ensuring that development projects adhere to environmental and social justice standards.
And that Vigilance must be constant where the movement calls for sustained engagement to confront future environmental threats and inspire others to remain resilient.
“This is more than just a court victory, It is a call to action,” said one campaign leader. “It reminds us that every effort, big or small, contributes to fixing global injustices and securing our shared future.”
As Africa moves toward a sustainable and inclusive energy transition, the Lamu ruling stands as a beacon of hope and a symbol of what determined citizens can achieve when united for a common cause.
The campaign’s message remains clear; Justice for Lamu is justice for Africa.
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