Kenya’s first nuclear power plant will open on the Indian Ocean coast in 2034, the government announced as it prepares to host a U.S.-Africa summit on nuclear energy next week. The announcement has already sparked objections from activists and local residents over safety and environmental concerns.
South Africa is the only country in Africa to have built nuclear power plants, such as this Eskom Duvha plant in the coal-rich Witbank region.
South Africa is the only country in Africa to have built nuclear power plants, such as this Eskom Duvha power station in the coal-rich Witbank region. AFP – MARCO LONGARI
Construction of the 1,000-megawatt plant will begin in 2027 and is expected to cost about 500 billion Kenyan shillings (about 3.5 billion euros), according to media reports.
Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said a research reactor would be operational by the early 2030s.
“Kenya is committed to being a leader in clean energy. Kenya is focused on advancing nuclear technology as part of Kenya’s sustainable energy strategy,” Mudavadi said in a statement.
The project aims to increase Kenya’s energy capacity, reduce carbon emissions, and create new job opportunities.
