Kenya Moves Nuclear Project to Siaya After Kilifi Pushback

Kenya is set to build its first nuclear power plant in Siaya County, after shifting the proposed project from Kilifi County following fierce opposition from residents.

The move comes as a relief for locals in Uyombo village, Kilifi, who had fought plans to construct the $5 billion (Sh650 billion) power plant in their backyard. 

“We received the news from Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi about relocating the project to the proposed new site in Lwanda Kotieno, Rarieda Constituency, with great relief. Now we can continue with our daily activities without interference,” said Mr Sammy Ndurya, a resident.

His neighbour Jane Boke added: “We are now free to continue with our farming. But those where the project is being taken should know that humans have no spare parts. Once the environment is degraded, it will never be productive.”

The residents had accused the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) of failing to fully disclose environmental and technical assessments, with some filing a lawsuit challenging the legality of the project. 

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In contrast, leaders in Siaya have welcomed the relocation. Speaking at a nuclear stakeholder forum at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, Energy Cabinet Secretary Wandayi said: “Kenya remains committed to implementing the nuclear power programme while adhering to the highest possible international standards.”

He explained that the project is designed to generate 1,000 megawatts by 2034 as part of a broader strategy to raise national production from 3,400 to 60,000 megawatts annually by 2030. 

“Today Kenya is actually progressing through Phase II of the implementation based on the IAA milestone approach,” he said, referring to the International Atomic Agency’s guidance.

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Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who attended the Bondo forum, urged partnerships with experienced nuclear nations. He said Kenya must “partner with other advanced nuclear countries for safety, capacity building, global expertise, and oversight.”

The government maintains that nuclear power is essential to achieving Vision 2030 and to reduce over-reliance on hydro, geothermal, wind and solar sources. Officials argue that the Siaya site, near Lake Victoria, offers greater technical suitability than Uyombo.

The project still faces doubts, but Uyombo residents are content. As one put it, “We are happy that experts came and informed us about the pros and cons, where the negative effects outweighed the benefits. That is why we rejected the project.”

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