The government has reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring environmental safety while securing economic benefits for Kilifi residents amidst the ongoing concerns regarding the proposed nuclear power plant at Uyombo village, Matsangoni Ward, in Kilifi County
Speaking at the County Commissioners’ office at Uhuru na Kazi towers in Mombasa County, Government Spokesperson Dr. Isaac Mwaura assured the public that all necessary precautions are being taken in line with international safety standards to safeguard the health and livelihoods of the local community.
His remarks follow concerns raised by opposition leaders last weekend while on a political tour of the region about the potential hazardous impact of the project on tourism and public health.
Dr. Mwaura emphasised that the proposed nuclear facility, which forms part of Kenya’s long-term energy development strategy, is a crucial step toward reducing energy costs, increasing national power output, and promoting clean energy.
“We are now in Phase Two of the project implementation, which will happen between now and 2027, following the successful completion of Phase One,” he said. “We are establishing the necessary regulatory frameworks, including the creation of a nuclear regulatory authority.”
The project, which is jointly sponsored by the Kenyan government and the World Bank, is expected to cost approximately Sh500 billion and generate about 1,000 megawatts (MWs) of electricity upon completion. It forms part of the national energy diversification plan to meet the country’s growing electricity demand, which currently stands at 3,321 MWs.
“As the third-largest economy in Sub-Saharan Africa, Kenya requires up to 30,000 MWs of electricity to support industrialization and sustainable development. Nuclear energy, alongside geothermal and hydroelectric power, offers a stable, clean, and reliable source,” Dr. Mwaura noted.
He dismissed claims that the project poses health risks, adding that international safety benchmarks are being observed. He cited a recent visit by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) delegation to assess the country’s nuclear readiness.
“The identified sites have undergone thorough safety assessments. We have learned from global experiences such as the Chernobyl incident in 1986, and we are committed to ensuring the highest safety standards,” said Dr. Mwaura, who attended the IAEA mission alongside Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.
In addition to electricity generation, the spokesperson highlighted the broader benefits of nuclear technology, including its application in cancer treatment, sterilization of medical equipment, and food preservation.
The plant is also expected to create a minimum of 10,000 jobs, further contributing to the local economy. Dr. Mwaura urged residents to disregard misinformation and affirmed that public engagement remains central to the government’s approach to development.
“Only local landowners will receive compensation. The concerns about non-locals receiving title deeds are being investigated by the relevant authorities, and necessary action will be taken against them,” he clarified.
Kenya is among a few African countries pursuing nuclear energy, with South Africa being the only one currently operating a nuclear power plant. Egypt, Ghana, and Kenya are progressing in the development of nuclear power programs, with Kenya targeting 2034 for operational readiness.
Dr. Mwaura also addressed other government initiatives, including the upcoming climate works programme modelled on the previous Kazi Mtaani project. The programme is expected to create over 110,000 job opportunities across the country.
By Sitati Reagan
