Voicing participation in large-scale infrastructural projects: A contextualization of participatory communication in Lamu Port, Kenya

This study argues that, although public participation is a mechanism of connection and collective struggle, its practice lacks strong operational foundation. A re-conceptualization as planning social reform tool expounded through examination how project affected people in the Kenya Lamu Port project, voiced their concerns. key infrastructural - South Sudan Ethiopia Transport Corridor Project (LAPSSET). LAPSSET one biggest costliest projects Africa. It suffered major completion delay by November 2021, only three 32 berths were functional. Four objectives pursued: describe local understand participatory communication, determine what ‘voice’ concerns, expound voice concerns explain challenges participation. mixed method approach was used where informants sample 385 residents studied. Data analyzed using descriptive techniques thematic analyses. Key findings it not quantity that matters safeguarding community individual interests, but quality voicing strategies are adopted participants. Similarly, all communication agenda implementers perceived genuine reflective community’s’ interest. recommended who fight for rights should be recognized empowered via such legislations regulations. Participation gives surveillance power on affect an encounter process.   words: Communication style, influence, project.