- Kenya will begin building its first nuclear power plant in 2027, aiming for completion by 2034 to boost energy capacity and reduce carbon emissions.
- The country will also host the 2nd US-Africa Nuclear Energy Summit in August 2024 to discuss nuclear energy adoption and strengthen regional cooperation
Kenya will begin constructing its first nuclear power plant in 2027 as part of a strategic push to enhance its energy capacity and promote sustainable development. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi announced on Thursday, August 22, 2024, that the initial research reactor is expected to be operational by the early 2030s, with the whole plant anticipated by 2034.
This initiative is part of Kenya’s plan to cut carbon emissions, create job opportunities, and stimulate economic growth. Mudavadi emphasised the country’s commitment to advancing nuclear technology as a critical component of its sustainable energy strategy.
He highlighted the role of nuclear power in Kenya’s clean energy production efforts and appreciated the mentorship the United States Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) provided to young Kenyans in STEM fields.
During a meeting with NEA Director-General William D. Magwood, IV, Mudavadi discussed the collaboration between Kenya and the NEA. The focus was on integrating atomic energy into Kenya’s clean energy mix, deploying Small Modular Reactor technology, enhancing research capabilities, and building institutional sustainability.
Mudavadi stressed the importance of this partnership in achieving Kenya’s long-term energy and development objectives. In addition to the nuclear plant project, Kenya will host the 2nd US-Africa Nuclear Energy Summit (USA) from August 27 to 30, 2024.
The summit will assess Africa’s readiness for nuclear energy adoption and address barriers to its implementation in the region. It aims to strengthen existing relationships and foster new ones to advance cooperation in the atomic energy sector. The event will bring together policymakers, technical experts, and industry leaders for workshops, stakeholder sessions, and discussions on financing, workforce development, and supply chain readiness.
The first summit in Accra, Ghana, focused on international cooperation in nuclear technology and policy development. During his visit to the US in May, President William Ruto and President Joe Biden discussed deepening US-Africa atomic cooperation as part of a broader clean energy and resilience partnership. This ongoing collaboration underscores the commitment of both nations to advancing nuclear power as a viable solution for achieving Net Zero by 2050.