Anti-nuclear protests in Kilifi on October 11, 2024 /BRIAN OTIENOAnother lobby group has opposed the proposed nuclear power plant in Siaya county as the government continues efforts to assure residents the project will be safe.
The Kenya Left Alliance (KLA) described the project as an opaque, top-down initiative that prioritises corporate and geopolitical interests over the constitutional rights, livelihoods and environment of local communities.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the alliance said major development projects should only proceed with the free, prior and informed consent of affected communities.
"No development project of this magnitude can be imposed upon communities. The government's failure to conduct meaningful, transparent and informed public participation violates both the constitution and the democratic rights of citizens," the statement said.
The proposed plant was relocated to Siaya after strong opposition from residents and environmental groups over its initial site in Uyombo, Kilifi county.
KLA warned that Lake Victoria supports millions of people across Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania and that any activity posing environmental risks could have far-reaching consequences.
"Any activity that exposes the lake to radioactive contamination, thermal pollution or long-term environmental degradation threatens food security, public health, biodiversity and future generations," the alliance said.
The group also questioned the government's plan to finance the estimated Sh500 billion project through a public-private partnership model, arguing that Kenya should instead invest in renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, geothermal and community-owned energy projects.
It said the country has sufficient renewable energy potential to support industrialisation without exposing communities to what it termed unacceptable environmental and social risks.
The alliance further called for an end to what it described as the intimidation of residents opposed to the project, including alleged arbitrary arrests, excessive use of force and punitive bond terms.
It also demanded an independent investigation into the shooting of a community member by a police officer during protests.
The latest opposition comes despite assurances from Nuclear Power and Energy Agency CEO Justus Wabuyabo that safety remains the government's top priority.
Appearing before the Senate Energy Committee last week, Wabuyabo said Kenya would not proceed with construction until all environmental, social and safety requirements had been met.
"The country has little to worry about because advances in nuclear technology have addressed many of the risks associated with older nuclear plants," he said.
He said the International Atomic Energy Agency would not permit construction unless all safety standards were met.
"With regard to safety, security and safeguards, a nuclear power plant is paramount. No construction will begin before environmental and social impact assessments are completed," Wabuyabo said.
He also dismissed concerns that Kenya could import outdated nuclear technology, saying there could never be a "mtumba" nuclear power plant.
