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By Justice Ahoto
Nairobi, Kenya – Kenya is making a significant push into nuclear energy, with plans to construct a 2,000MW nuclear power plant in Siaya County by 2027. The project, estimated to be commissioned by 2034, is part of the country’s broader strategy to increase its energy capacity to 10,000MW in the next five to seven years.
Speaking at the International Conference on Nuclear Energy, President William Ruto emphasized the importance of nuclear energy in driving industrialization, innovation, and economic transformation. “No country in the world has ever achieved its development ambitions without adequate and reliable energy,” he said.
The nuclear plant is expected to create between 5,000 to 12,000 jobs during the peak construction phase and provide hundreds of permanent positions once operational. Local infrastructure, including roads, water supply systems, and healthcare facilities, will also receive significant upgrades.
Kenya’s move into nuclear energy is part of a broader global trend, with the COP28 declaration calling for a tripling of global nuclear energy capacity by 2050. President Ruto called on international organizations and institutions to support the development of nuclear energy in countries like Kenya, including providing affordable financing options.
The government has committed to establishing a robust regulatory framework aligned with international best practices, ensuring the safe and secure development of nuclear energy in Kenya.
