Post: Kenya Picks Siaya For Landmark Nuclear Project

Siaya: The government has announced plans to set up its first nuclear power plant in Siaya County by 2030 to bolster energy production, up to 60,000 megawatts, once operational. Siaya, which is in the Lake Victoria region, has been identified for the project because of its proximity to the Lake.According to Kenya News Agency, the Nuclear Power and Energy Programme (NuPEA) states that Kenya needs to bolster its current energy production of 3,400 megawatts to 60,000 megawatts annually to be ready for industrialisation. Currently, the country relies on hydro, wind power, solar, and geothermal for power production, which cannot meet the sustainable energy demands of the country.Speaking during the Nuclear Energy stakeholder engagement at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi highlighted that nuclear energy is an essential power source that will drive Kenya's industrialisation agenda and deliver Vision 2030. He emphasized the government's commitment , under President Dr. William Ruto, to realize robust and sustainable energy.The Energy Cabinet Secretary revealed that, through guidance from the International Atomic Agency (IAA), Kenya is making progress towards the safe, secure, and sustainable implementation of its first nuclear power plant project. Kenya is currently in phase 2 of implementation based on the IAA milestone approach.Wandayi noted that establishing a nuclear power plant is a national endeavor that requires foresight, collaboration, and collective commitment. He encouraged the public to embrace the initiative to build a resilient, energy-secure, and prosperous Kenya.Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, also present at the engagement, urged the government to partner with advanced nuclear countries for safety, capacity building, global expertise, and oversight in implementing nuclear energy programs. He assured the public that nuclear power is safe, sustainable, and the key to meeting Kenya's energy needs for industrialisation.Local le aders, including Bondo MP Dr. Gedion Ochanda, welcomed the government's move, calling for continued community sensitisation on nuclear energy. Ochanda and Ugenya MP David Ochieng emphasized addressing negative perceptions through proper community sensitisation about nuclear energy's safety and adherence to international safety standards.Siaya Senator Dr. Oburu Odinga, chair of the Senate committee on Energy, highlighted that implementing nuclear energy is a result of rigorous research, assuring the public of its safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. NuPEA Chairman Prof. Larry Gumbe announced plans to sign an MoU with Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology for training and research on nuclear energy.