Kenya is on course to begin construction of its first nuclear power plant in 2027, marking a significant milestone in the country’s energy development strategy. The plant is expected to be commissioned in 2034, according to the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA).
Speaking during a live KBC broadcast hosted by the Office of the Government Spokesperson under the banner Sema na Spox; Bonga na Gava, NuPEA CEO Justus Wabuyabo said preparations are in the final stages as the country gears up for this transformative project.
“The idea of a nuclear plant was conceptualised in 2010, and we are now moving to the critical stage of construction, which will create 10,000 direct jobs,” Wabuyabo revealed. He noted that Kenya is making remarkable progress compared to other African nations, stating, “Currently, South Africa is the only country with an operational nuclear power program. Egypt is nearing completion of its plant, and Kenya will be the third.”
Wabuyabo emphasized the need for a skilled workforce to support the safe and efficient development of nuclear energy. He highlighted NuPEA’s commitment to capacity building through international training and partnerships with local academic institutions.
“A country must ensure it has enough skilled workforce to manage a nuclear power program. We’ve identified competent Kenyans and sent them abroad to learn firsthand from countries with advanced nuclear technology,” he said. “We are also working with universities to develop local training programs. This is work in earnest.”
The nuclear power initiative aims to diversify Kenya’s energy mix and ensure a reliable, low-carbon source of electricity. As the country faces rising demand for energy due to industrialization and population growth, nuclear energy is seen as a sustainable solution that complements existing sources like hydro, geothermal, and solar.
“Nuclear energy is being used worldwide to generate electricity. This technology is extremely useful, and in our case, it will significantly enhance power supply reliability,” Wabuyabo explained.
With construction on the horizon, Kenya edges closer to becoming a continental leader in nuclear energy development, setting a precedent for innovation and self-reliance in the region’s power sector
