Kenya’s proposed nuclear power plant is expected to generate more than 20,000 megawatts of electricity by 2040, positioning the country as a power-sufficient economy. The output will be expanded to generate more than 60,000 megawatts in the long-run.

Speaking in Kakamega, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Kenya Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) Justus Wabuyab said the project would transform Kenya’s energy sector and eliminate the power shortages currently being experienced.

“Kenya does not produce enough electricity to meet domestic demand, which is why the government has had to purchase power from Ethiopia and Uganda. The nuclear project will help bridge this gap,” Wabuyabo explained.

He revealed that plans are at an advanced stage to begin construction of the country’s first nuclear power plant in Siaya County at an estimated cost of Ksh500 billion ($3.864 billion). The project will require advanced technology and high-grade materials.

“The blackouts we experience will soon be a thing of the past. Nuclear energy will ensure consistent electricity supply for homes, industries and public institutions,” he added.

Siaya, which is in Lake Victoria Basin, was identified for the project because of its proximity to the lake. The site of the plant is also strategic as Kenya will export the surplus power to Uganda and other East Africa Community (EAC) countries to the west.

Instructively, an output of 60,000 megawatts will surpass by more than eight times the electricity produced collectively by Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and South Sudan. Only the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) surpasses this capacity, but it is hampered by internecine wars in the east that prevent it from realising its full potential.

Currently Kenya produces 3,400 megawatts, Tanzania 3,091.71 megawatts, Uganda 2,048 megawatts, Rwanda 277 megawatts, Burundi 34 megawatts and Democratic Republic of the Congo 13,625 gigawatts. South Sudan’s capacity is indeterminate.

According to Wabuyabo, once the Siaya plant is operational, the government will roll out additional nuclear facilities in Kilifi and Kwale counties. In addition, smaller nuclear units will be introduced in every county through a new technology known as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

“With SMRs, we can establish compact nuclear power plants across all counties. This will guarantee sufficient electricity, support industrial growth and boost economic transformation,” he said.

The Siaya nuclear power plant will initially generate 1,000 megawatts before gradually expanding to 20,000 megawatts by 2040. Wabuyabo noted that the facility will create over 10,000 jobs for Kenyan youth.

He assured the public that the technology is safe for both people and the environment. “The nuclear project is guided by national and international laws, including emergency preparedness plans. It will operate under the oversight of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which enforces strict safety guidelines,” he explained.

Wabuyabo emphasised the long-term benefits, noting that the project will outlast multiple governments.

“This is a century-long investment. Nuclear power plants typically operate for over 100 years. Fuel costs are relatively cheaper compared to other energy sources, which will ultimately reduce electricity bills for Kenyans,” he said.

He further noted that nuclear projects are insulated from political interference as required by international laws.

“Once a nuclear project starts, it cannot be halted by a change in leadership. This ensures continuity and sustainability,” he pointed out.

The CEO confirmed that President William Ruto has already endorsed the project, with local leaders from Siaya County also expressing support.

Beyond power generation, Wabuyabo highlighted other applications of nuclear technology. In medicine, it is widely used in diagnostic imaging such as X-rays and CT scans, as well as in detecting and treating cancerous tumours.

“Nuclear medicine provides early diagnosis and improves treatment outcomes,” he said.

In agriculture, nuclear technology supports food security through innovations like food irradiation, which extends shelf life, and crop improvement methods that develop pest – and disease-resistant varieties.

“This will reduce post-harvest losses and help secure Kenya’s food systems,” Wabuyabo explained.

He added that nuclear science also plays a role in industry through non-destructive testing. “This technology identifies cracks, dents, or other flaws in machinery without causing damage, ensuring efficiency and safety in industrial operations,” he said.

Wabuyabo concluded by affirming NuPEA’s commitment to making nuclear energy a central pillar of Kenya’s development agenda.

“This project is not just about electricity; it is about industrialisation, job creation, food security, and improved healthcare. It is an investment that will define Kenya’s future for generations to come,” he said.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Moses Wekesa