Experts Raise Feasibility and Safety Concerns Over Kenya’s Ksh490 Billion Nuclear Power Project
Kenya’s ambitious plan to build a 1,000-megawatt nuclear power plant worth Ksh490 billion has triggered heated debate among environmentalists, scientists, and energy policy experts. While the government insists the project is vital for the country’s future energy security, critics question its feasibility, cost, and environmental risks.
Government Push for Nuclear Energy
The Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) confirmed that Kenya is currently in the second phase of its nuclear power programme, aiming to connect nuclear-generated electricity to the national grid by 2034. Officials argue that nuclear power will help meet rising energy demand, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and support industrial growth.
However, experts have warned that nuclear projects often face significant delays and cost overruns. Hartmut Winkler, a nuclear energy specialist at the University of Johannesburg, noted that such ventures are “extremely expensive” and take decades to complete.
“You won’t see anything coming out of them for at least 10 to 20 years, and they always cost much more than expected,” he told Mongabay.
Safety and Regulatory Concerns
An assessment by the Netherlands Commission for Environmental Assessment (NCEA) found major deficiencies in Kenya’s Strategic Environmental and Social Assessment (SESA) report prepared by NuPEA. The commission concluded that the report “does not constitute a basis for well-informed decision-making” and fails to meet international nuclear safety standards. It recommended significant revisions before any approvals are granted.
Environmental and Site Selection Issues
Environmental advocates have also raised alarms over waste disposal and potential contamination of fragile ecosystems. The initial proposed site in Uyombo, Kilifi County, drew protests from residents due to its proximity to the Arabuko Sokoke Forest and the Malindi-Watamu Biosphere Reserve, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites hosting mangroves, coral reefs, and endangered species.
Following public opposition, the government shifted focus to Luanda Kotieno in Siaya County, though it has also mentioned Turkana County, near Lake Turkana, as a possible alternative. The uncertainty over site selection has deepened public concern about transparency and preparedness.
Lake Victoria Impact Fears
Environmental groups warn that building the nuclear facility near Lake Victoria could pose severe ecological risks. The lake sustains millions of livelihoods and supports over 800,000 metric tonnes of fish annually. Conservationists caution that any nuclear waste leakage or accident could devastate fisheries across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Divided Opinions
Despite ongoing protests, some leaders, including Raila Odinga, have voiced support for the project, calling nuclear power a clean and sustainable option that could lower electricity costs and boost industrialisation.
As Kenya pursues its clean energy transition, the debate underscores a key challenge: balancing the need for affordable energy with environmental safety and long-term sustainability.
