Kenya is set to establish its first nuclear power plant by 2034, according to Musalia Mudavadi.
Kenya plans to construct its first nuclear power plant by 2034 - Mudavadi.
Sharon Koech
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has announced that Kenya plans to build its first nuclear power plant by 2034. He also revealed that a research reactor will be set up by the early 2030s, with the initiative starting in 2027. The goals of this project include increasing energy capacity, reducing CO2 emissions, and generating significant job opportunities to drive economic growth.
“Kenya is committed to leading in clean energy. We are focusing on advancing nuclear technology as part of our sustainable energy strategy,” Mudavadi stated.
This announcement came after a meeting with William D. Magwood, IV, Director-General of the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), at Mudavadi's Railways office. Mudavadi praised the NEA’s efforts in mentoring young Kenyans in STEM fields and discussed how advancing nuclear technology aligns with Kenya's sustainable energy strategy and NEA’s goals for integrating atomic energy into clean energy initiatives.
Key aspects of Kenya’s nuclear energy initiative include the deployment of Small Modular Reactor technology, advancing research, and ensuring institutional sustainability.
“As we progress, this collaboration will be crucial for the successful execution of our nuclear energy program, contributing to our nation's prosperity and sustainability,” Mudavadi stated.
Additionally, Kenya will host the 2nd edition of the US-Africa Nuclear Energy Summit (USANES) from August 27-30. The summit will evaluate the industry’s readiness for nuclear energy adoption in Africa and address challenges that impede its acceptance in the region. It aims to strengthen existing partnerships and forge new ones to enhance cooperation in the nuclear sector while highlighting nuclear power’s potential to achieve Net Zero by 2050.
The event will bring together policymakers, technical experts, and industry leaders for educational workshops, stakeholder engagement, and discussions on topics such as financing, workforce development, and supply chain readiness.
The first summit took place in Ghana, organized by the US Department of Energy (DOE) and the Nuclear Power Institute (NPI) of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission. That summit focused on fostering international cooperation, sharing innovative solutions, and shaping nuclear technology policies.
){kind=small}
