Siaya set for nuclear plant as Kenya eyes energy revolution

Siaya Governor James Orengo addressing the media in Kisumu/Faith Matete 

Siaya County is edging closer to hosting Kenya’s first nuclear power plant, with leaders and agencies seeking public support ahead of a planned groundbreaking next March.

The project, spearheaded by the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) in partnership with KenGen, has gathered pace as stakeholders intensify engagements with leaders and residents.

The agency has already identified eight potential sites along the shores of Lake Victoria where the plant could be established.

Speaking during a high-level induction meeting in Kisumu, NuPEA Board chairman Larry Gumbe said the ongoing three-day forum aims to align stakeholders, educate the public and chart a clear path for implementation.

“We are discussing collaboration in establishing and developing a nuclear power plant in Siaya. The most important outcome will be a strategy for public communication and stakeholder engagement,” he said.

Gumbe said the success of the project will depend heavily on close cooperation between national agencies and local leadership, noting that community ownership will be key.

“When we enter Siaya, we must work hand in hand with the political leadership because this is both their project and ours,” he added.

He pointed to the urgent need for Kenya to scale up electricity generation to meet its industrial ambitions under Vision 2030.

Currently producing about 3,000 megawatts, the country is targeting 60,000 megawatts, leaving a wide gap that renewable sources alone may not fill.

“Hydro, geothermal, wind and solar can only provide about 20,000 megawatts combined. Nuclear energy offers a reliable solution to bridge this deficit,” he said.

According to the agency, the proposed plant in Siaya could generate up to 6,000 megawatts within four to six years, providing stable, round-the-clock power unlike intermittent sources such as wind and solar.

Gumbe also sought to ease concerns about nuclear safety, describing the technology as one of the cleanest and safest energy sources globally.

“Nearly 500 nuclear plants operate safely worldwide. It is scientifically proven to be safe, clean and efficient,” he said.

He added that nuclear technology could also support sectors such as medicine, agriculture and engineering through advanced research.

NuPEA chief executive Justus Wabuyabo assured residents and leaders that the project would adhere strictly to international standards and best practices under the guidance of the International Atomic Energy Agency.

He said Kenya is working closely with global partners to ensure the programme meets the highest standards of safety, security and environmental protection.

Wabuyabo said the government is targeting the development of a nuclear power plant capable of generating about 1,000 megawatts for the national grid.

He noted that the planned groundbreaking will depend on key processes such as land acquisition and regulatory approvals, and called on the county government to support community engagement.

He added that the project will require a highly skilled workforce, with plans underway to partner with universities and training institutions to equip young people from Siaya with the necessary expertise.

“Institutions will also work with the programme to develop curricula aligned with the technical demands of the nuclear sector,” he said.

He emphasised that beyond the technical aspects, public understanding and support will be crucial, with stakeholder engagement remaining central throughout the process.

KenGen Board member Umuru Wario said the government has already designated the power utility as the owner-operator of the plant, marking a major step in its rollout.

“This is more than just an energy project. A nuclear power plant can last up to 100 years, making it a long-term national investment,” he said.

Wario underscored the need for transparency and continuous dialogue, noting that successful nuclear projects globally are those where communities are treated as partners.

“We must prioritise dialogue over infrastructure. Communities must have access to accurate information, ask questions and fully own the project,” he said, adding that the media will play a key role in shaping public understanding.

Siaya Governor James Orengo welcomed the initiative but cautioned that public consent remains essential.

“This is just the beginning. Once we have commitment, partnerships and the consent of the people, then we can move forward fully,” he said.

He described the project as potentially the largest single investment in Kenya’s history, with far-reaching economic benefits for the region.

“This project will be transformative. It will bring infrastructure such as roads and attract investors, especially if host communities benefit from concessionary electricity rates,” he said.

Drawing parallels with regions transformed by key industries, Orengo said the plant could anchor Siaya’s economy and elevate its national standing.

“Siaya needs a major investment to define its future. Just as tea transformed Kericho, this project can change our economic trajectory,” he said.

He also dismissed concerns about environmental impact on Lake Victoria, saying global evidence shows nuclear facilities can safely coexist with fishing activities.

Siaya Speaker George Okode reaffirmed the county government’s support while urging residents to rely on factual information.

Okode added that the assembly is ready to provide legislative support and oversight while ensuring the voices of communities, including fishermen, are heard throughout the process.

“There are many myths about nuclear energy. We urge people to rely on science rather than fear,” he said.

With political leaders backing the initiative and national agencies pushing for consensus, attention now turns to whether residents will embrace a project that promises both opportunity and scrutiny in equal measure.

INSTANT ANALYSIS

Siaya’s proposed nuclear plant signals a major shift in Kenya’s energy strategy, reflecting growing pressure to bridge a widening power deficit as industrial ambitions expand. While the project promises reliable baseload power and long-term economic gains, its success will hinge less on technology and more on public trust. The early emphasis on stakeholder engagement suggests authorities recognise the political and social risks, particularly around safety, land and livelihoods. The involvement of global standards bodies adds credibility, but local buy-in remains uncertain. If managed transparently, the project could redefine regional development. If not, resistance could delay or derail a flagship national investment.