The government of Kenya has handed over as the primary operator the nation’s first nuclear power plant to its state-owned utility firm, Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen).
The project will be developed in partnership with the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA).
The initiative forms part of Kenya’s broader plan to add up to 10 gigawatts of new electricity generation capacity.
The disclosure was made known by the Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum, Opiyo Wandayi, who noted that the move will strengthen Kenya’s nuclear capacity and public trust.
“Assigning KenGen the owner-operator role ensures the programme is anchored in strong technical capability, public trust, and long-term national interest.
“This MoU will deepen public awareness, strengthen stakeholder engagement, enhance institutional capabilities, and prepare the ground for a reliable low-carbon baseload option,” Wandayi said.
He stated that the project aligns with President William Ruto’s goal of rapidly expanding electricity supply.
Framework for the first nuclear plant
KenGen and NuPEA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a framework for public awareness, stakeholder consultation, and institutional readiness.
Wandayi explained that the first nuclear plant is expected to deliver about 2 gigawatts (GW) of electricity.
Its capacity could expand to 6 GW over time. He added that the project represents a major step toward achieving the government’s broader goal of adding 10 GW of electricity capacity to drive economic transformation.
KenGen leadership said the company’s experience across hydro, geothermal, wind, and solar energy provides a strong foundation for managing nuclear development.
“Nuclear energy is the next frontier for nations seeking stable, affordable, low-carbon baseload power,” KenGen’s chief executive said.
Nuclear capacity to ease power shortages
The nuclear programme is expected to significantly boost Kenya’s electricity supply. It shows a shift from reliance on hydro, wind, and geothermal power toward a stable baseload.
This can sustain industries, digital services, and manufacturing.
With long-term output projected at 20,000 megawatts by 2040, the programme could help end chronic power shortages. It will also reduce the country’s dependence on electricity imports.
Wandayi said that the MoU’s framework will ensure transparent public communication. It will support stakeholder involvement, technical forums, and community education.
Background on earlier proposals
The first nuclear plant was slated for Siaya County. NuPEA had already begun siting assessments and identified multiple potential locations within the county.
Earlier this year, NuPEA signed a technical-transfer agreement with the China Nuclear Engineering and Construction Corporation.
The partnership aims to build local capacity for nuclear infrastructure and operations.
Previous proposals to locate the plant in coastal regions, including Kilifi County, faced opposition from environmental and community groups.
Construction of the Siaya plant is expected to begin in 2027, with an initial generation capacity of 1,000 MW that will gradually scale up to 20,000 MW by 2040
Additional nuclear facilities are planned for Kilifi and Kwale counties and smaller units using Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
The project is designed not only to increase electricity capacity but also to provide a reliable, low-carbon energy source.
