Kenya to build first nuclear power plant by 2034 amid local opposition
Kenya’s first nuclear power plant is set to open in 2034 on the coast of the Indian Ocean, the government announced as it prepares to host a US-Africa summit on nuclear energy next week. The announcement has already raised objections from activists and local residents over safety and environmental concerns.
The construction of the 1,000-megawatt plant will begin in 2027, with the project expected to cost around 500 billion Kenyan shillings (about 3.5 billion euros), according to media reports.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said a research reactor would be commissioned by the early 2030s.
“Kenya is committed to leading in clean energy. Kenya is focused on advancing nuclear technology as part of Kenya's sustainable energy strategy,” said Mudavadi in a statement.
The project aims to increase Kenya’s energy capacity, reduce carbon emissions, and create new job opportunities.
Currently, Kenya generates about 90 percent of its energy from renewable sources, including geothermal, hydro-electric, wind and solar power.
President William Ruto, who has positioned himself at the forefront of African efforts to combat climate change, said the country could increase that figure to 100 percent by 2030.
Concerned locals
However, the prospect of a nuclear plant on the Indian Ocean coast has raised significant concerns, particularly among activists and local residents.
The Kenya Anti-Nuclear Alliance urged the government to focus on renewable energy sources instead.
Read more on RFI English
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