Kenya set to start construction of first nuclear plant in 2027

Kenya plans to begin building its first nuclear plant in 2027, with a target to generate electricity from the facility by 2034. Justus Wabuyabo, chief executive of the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA), said the project is entering a “critical stage”, with the country ready to embark on its first nuclear enterprise. If the project is completed on schedule, it will place Kenya alongside South Africa and Egypt as the only African nations with nuclear energy programmes at this level. Currently, South Africa is the only country on the continent with an operating nuclear commercial plant.
Discussions about nuclear energy in Kenya began over a decade ago prompted by the need to diversify energy resources and reduce reliance on hydropower, which has been affected by prolonged droughts. Progress has been slow due to regulatory, technical, and financial issues. Wabuyabo said NuPEA is finalising site assessments, regulatory frameworks, and partnerships for the construction of the plant. The plant should create up to 10,000 direct jobs during its construction phase. However, critics question whether Kenya has the skilled labour force required to run such a high-risk facility. Wabuyabo said that NuPEA has trained dozens of people abroad in advanced nuclear technology and is working closely with local universities to develop such kind of expertise in Kenya. He added that nuclear energy is not just about “adding megawatts” but it is a long-term investment in energy security.