President William Ruto on Thursday reiterated his government’s commitment to constructing a nuclear power plant in Siaya County, despite mounting safety concerns raised by opposition lawmakers and some experts. The announcement came as Kenya struggles to close a persistent electricity shortfall and seeks to diversify its energy mix beyond hydro‑electric and geothermal sources.
Government Stance
Ruto told a press conference that the Siaya project, slated to become the country’s first nuclear facility, will adhere to “the highest international safety standards.” He emphasized that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will supervise the plant’s design, construction and operation, and that the venture is expected to generate thousands of jobs and provide reliable, low‑cost electricity for industry and households.
"We will not compromise on safety; the project will meet all international standards and will be a catalyst for economic growth," Ruto said.
The president also highlighted the strategic importance of nuclear energy for Kenya’s ambition to have 10 % of its power generation come from nuclear sources by 2030, a target set in the nation’s long‑term energy blueprint.
Safety and Political Debate
Opposition leaders and several civil‑society organisations have warned that the plant’s proposed site, near Lake Victoria and within a region that experiences moderate seismic activity, poses significant risks. Critics argue that the location could jeopardise water quality and that the country lacks sufficient experience in managing radioactive waste.
According to Uzalendo News, Ruto dismissed the safety concerns as “politics,” suggesting that rival parties are using the issue to undermine his administration’s development agenda. The outlet quoted the president as saying that detractors are “trying to stall progress for partisan gain.”
Other observers, cited by The Star, have called for an independent, transparent safety audit before any construction begins, urging the government to disclose detailed feasibility studies and cost estimates that have so far been kept confidential.
Next Steps and Regional Implications
The government says it has already engaged international consultants to conduct a comprehensive environmental impact assessment and that the IAEA will provide technical assistance throughout the project lifecycle. A timeline released by the Ministry of Energy indicates that the plant could be operational by the early 2030s, pending regulatory approvals and financing arrangements.
Kenya’s nuclear ambitions are watched closely by neighboring East African states, many of which are also exploring low‑carbon power options. If successful, the Siaya plant could position Kenya as a regional hub for nuclear expertise and potentially open avenues for electricity export.
