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Kenya is set to begin the construction of its first nuclear power plant in 2027, marking a significant step in the country’s effort to enhance its energy capacity and embrace clean energy production. This ambitious project aims to commission a research reactor by the early 2030s, with the full-scale plant expected to be operational by 2034.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi emphasized that this initiative is part of Kenya’s broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions while simultaneously creating job opportunities and driving economic growth. “Kenya is committed to advancing nuclear technology as a key component of our sustainable energy strategy,” Mudavadi said during a meeting with William D. Magwood, IV, Director-General of the United States Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), at his Railways office.
The discussion between Mudavadi and Magwood centered on the role of nuclear technology in Kenya’s energy future, highlighting the country’s resolve to integrate atomic energy into its clean energy mix. They also explored areas such as deploying Small Modular Reactor technology, enhancing research capabilities, and building institutional sustainability.
Mudavadi expressed the government’s intent to strengthen its partnership with the NEA, recognizing the importance of international collaboration in achieving Kenya’s long-term energy and development goals. “This collaboration will be crucial in the successful implementation of our nuclear energy program, contributing significantly to the nation’s prosperity and sustainability,” he added.
Kenya will also host the 2nd edition of the US-Africa Nuclear Energy Summit (USANES) from August 27-30, a key event that will assess Africa’s readiness for nuclear energy adoption. The summit aims to address barriers to nuclear power adoption in the region, bolster existing relationships, and forge new partnerships to advance the nuclear energy sector. This event will gather policymakers, technical experts, and industry leaders for workshops, stakeholder engagement sessions, and discussions on financing, workforce development, and supply chain preparedness.
The inaugural summit, held in Ghana by the US Department of Energy (DOE) in collaboration with the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, focused on fostering international cooperation in nuclear technology and shaping policy frameworks. During his state visit to the US in May, President William Ruto and US President Joe Biden discussed enhancing US-Africa cooperation on clean energy and resilience, including deepening ties in the nuclear industry.
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