- Kenya has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the US as it seeks safe and secure deployment of nuclear technology.
- KNRA Director General clarified that while KNRA is not necessarily a promoter, it exists to ensure that Kenya’s nuclear programme is developed with the highest levels of safety and security for lives, property, and the environment.
Kenya has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the US as it seeks safe and secure deployment of nuclear technology. The agreement was sealed on the sidelines of the 2024 International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference in Vienna, Austria.
The historic pact came a day after Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi addressed the general session of the conference. Mudavadi had outlined Kenya’s ambitious plans to integrate nuclear power into the country’s energy mix by 2035 as part of a broader strategy to meet its growing energy demand.
Kenya’s current installed energy capacity, as of 2023, totals 3,321 MW, with significant contributions from geothermal (863 MW), hydroelectric power (838 MW), wind (436 MW), solar (173 MW), biomass (2 MW), and thermal energy (678 MW).
However, despite these sources, the country still faces a shortfall in its energy supply. Experts say nuclear energy will be crucial in addressing this deficit and supporting Kenya’s long-term industrialisation goals.
The MoU was signed by the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority (KNRA) and the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (USNRC). Both parties expressed optimism about the future of nuclear cooperation between the two nations, and chairman Christopher Hanson led the US team.
KNRA Director General James Keter emphasised the importance of the MoU, noting that it comes at a critical juncture for Kenya “and we must get it right.” “We have a lot on our hands. This MoU would not have come at a better time. We will work with industry leaders and every stakeholder to fortify our regulatory framework to ensure our nuclear programme’s responsible and effective development,” Keter said.
Mr Keter clarified that while KNRA is not necessarily a promoter, it exists to ensure Kenya’s nuclear programme is developed with the highest levels of safety and security for lives, property, and the environment.
KNRA board chairman Omondi Anyanga also expressed confidence in the collaboration, stating: “We believe the MoU will bring substantial benefits to the Kenyan economy. We have made considerable progress and look forward to continued support.”
Areas of cooperation will include sharing of operating experience and regulatory experience and cooperation in joint programmes of nuclear safety research and training.
Kenya and several other developing nations are exploring the potential use of nuclear energy beyond electricity generation, including its applications in health and agriculture.
As the country pursues its nuclear aspirations, experts highlight the importance of robust regulatory frameworks and international cooperation to ensure safe and effective deployment.
Kenya’s delegation to the talks included Mudavadi, Anyanga, Keter, ambassador Maurice Markoloo, Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) CEO Justus Wabuyabo, NuPEA board member Henry Rono and KNRA Corporation Secretary Beth Mushi. The conference ends on September 20, 2024.