President William Ruto announced that Kenya is set to diversify its energy mix by incorporating nuclear power, aiming to expand the country’s electricity generation from the current 3,300 MW to a target of 10,000 MW. Of this target, 3,000 MW will come from nuclear energy, the President said, during the International Conference on Nuclear Energy held at KICC.
Nuclear Power to Drive Economic Growth and Energy Security
Addressing attendees, President Ruto emphasized that nuclear energy is a safe and reliable source of power, widely used by advanced economies to fuel industrialisation and development. He stated,
“There is a perception that nuclear energy poses a significant danger to human well-being. This perception, while understandable, is not supported by evidence.”
The President highlighted that Kenya will enact robust legislation and adhere to international standards of nuclear safety, security, and safeguards. This regulatory framework is intended to inspire confidence domestically while facilitating partnerships with international stakeholders.
Economic and Social Benefits
Integrating nuclear energy into Kenya’s national grid will help meet growing electricity demand, provide stable and clean power, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and lower electricity costs. President Ruto projected that optimising the energy mix through nuclear power could reduce electricity costs by 4 to 5.5 cents per unit.
He also highlighted the broader economic benefits, noting that the nuclear program will attract investment, generate thousands of jobs, and facilitate technology transfer.
“During the peak construction phase, the nuclear project will generate about 5,000 to 12,000 jobs, ranging from manual labour to highly specialised engineering roles,” he said.
Planned Nuclear Plant in Siaya County
The President announced that construction of a 2,000 MW nuclear power plant in Siaya County will begin next year, with commissioning expected by 2034. He welcomed the COP28 declaration to triple global nuclear capacity by 2050 and urged international organisations to support nuclear energy development through policy, financing, and capacity-building initiatives.
Stakeholder Support
Siaya Governor James Orengo expressed readiness to host the nuclear facility, assuring residents that safety concerns are being adequately addressed. Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi reiterated that nuclear energy is central to achieving the 10,000 MW power target and advancing Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, Vision 2030, and Sustainable Development Goals.
Nuclear Energy Agency CEO William Magwood praised the Kenyan government’s efficiency in establishing the nuclear programme, affirming international support for the initiative.
“We think Kenya is on the right path and we are here to help,” he stated.
President Ruto concluded by underscoring the transformative potential of nuclear energy for Kenya’s economy, asserting that a diversified and reliable power supply is critical for industrialisation, technological innovation, and sustainable development.
