Chinese company involved in construction works at the Lamu port has temporarily halted its operations and will resume when workers are recalled next Monday.
This comes days after Al shabaab terrorists raided a military base used by Kenyan and US forces on the island.
Officials who requested not be named revealed that workers are reluctant to leave their living quarters inside the port and unless they are paid risk allowances.
The firm is also believed to be seeking more guarantees from the government to continue with their operations.
Lamu County Commissioner Simon Macharia also told media that the workers downed their tools on Sunday and demanded a risk allowance or salary increament.
“I have been busy since Sunday. I was to meet the workers at the port on Monday but I was working on how Boni schools are going to be opened but i will meet the management by the end of the week,” said Mr Macharia.
Engineer Abdullah Samatar, Lamu Port General Manager said the government has assured them that all key installations will be adequately secured.
“Consultations are currently going on to ensure that the suspension of works is lifted immediately after we provide our contractors with the needed security assurances to continue with the construction,” Mr Samatar said.
