Kenya's NuPEA Advances Nuclear Power Project Despite Local Opposition in Siaya County
Kenya's Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) is advancing a nuclear power project in Siaya County despite local opposition, particularly from Luo elders who cite health and environmental concerns. CEO Justus Wabuyabo announced ongoing public consultations and stakeholder meetings set for January, emphasizing the project's potential benefits for energy security and economic growth. The initiative, now budgeted at Sh500 billion, aims to generate 20,000 megawatts by 2040, with KenGen designated as the owner-operator.
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NuPEA's CEO Justus Wabuyabo announced that the nuclear power project in Siaya County is still in the consultative phase, involving public engagement and safety evaluations. A new round of stakeholder meetings will commence in January to inform residents about the project and address concerns.
Some resistance stems from anti-nuclear activists, while Wabuyabo emphasizes the project’s potential benefits for energy security and economic growth. Local Luo elders, however, unanimously oppose the construction of a 1,000-megawatt plant at Luanda Kotieno, citing health risks and environmental concerns.
They have formed a technical committee to assess these risks within 60 days. The project, initially planned for Kilifi County, has shifted focus to Siaya, with a budget of Sh500 billion and a long-term goal of generating 20,000 megawatts by 2040. KenGen has been appointed as the owner-operator, adhering to IAEA guidelines.
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