Kenya Bets on Nuclear Energy to Power Growth and Cut Electricity Costs
By Njeri Irungu
26 March 2026, Nairobi, Kenya
Kenya is ramping up efforts to secure reliable and affordable electricity, with nuclear energy now firmly positioned at the heart of its future energy mix.
President William Ruto said the government aims to increase the country’s power generation capacity from 3,300 megawatts to 10,000 megawatts, a move expected to accelerate industrial growth, create jobs and boost the economy.
Addressing delegates at the International Conference on Nuclear Energy at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Ruto revealed that nuclear power will contribute at least 3,000 megawatts to the national grid.
He stressed that consistent and dependable energy supply remains a cornerstone for countries seeking long-term economic stability.
“Energy is the lifeblood of industrialisation,” the President said, noting that Kenya must prioritise steady and sufficient power to support enterprise and innovation.
In response to public concerns, Ruto assured Kenyans that nuclear energy is safe when governed by stringent international standards. He added that the government is committed to establishing comprehensive legal and regulatory safeguards to ensure accountability and public confidence.
He further highlighted nuclear energy’s ability to provide baseload power, which is essential in stabilising the grid and addressing intermittent supply challenges.
The renewed focus on nuclear energy comes as Kenya continues to grapple with relatively high electricity costs, with tariffs averaging about nine US cents per unit—higher than in several competing economies in the region.
Siaya Governor James Orengo said his county is prepared to host Kenya’s first nuclear power plant, arguing that countries seeking rapid development must embrace modern energy solutions.
“We must move with the rest of the world,” Orengo said, adding that public education and strict safety measures will be crucial in addressing fears surrounding nuclear technology.
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi underscored the role of nuclear energy in achieving the 10,000-megawatt target, describing it as critical to building a stable and resilient electricity system.
He said affordable and reliable power will be key in advancing national priorities such as the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
“Nuclear energy provides reliable baseload power,” Wandayi said. “This is what we need to sustain long-term economic transformation.”
Under the government’s roadmap, Kenya plans to deploy at least 3,000 megawatts of nuclear power within the next seven years. The programme is expected to begin with the introduction of Small Modular Reactors in Siaya County, alongside plans to construct a 2,000-megawatt plant scheduled for completion in 2034.
The initiative will be spearheaded by the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency in collaboration with the Kenya Electricity Generating Company.
At the same time, the government is reviewing its regulatory framework, including plans to shift nuclear oversight to the energy ministry to improve efficiency and coordination.
Globally, nuclear energy remains a major source of clean and stable power in developed economies. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, South Africa is currently the only African nation generating nuclear power, while Egypt is developing its own facility.
For ordinary Kenyans, the stakes are practical and immediate.
Businesses are seeking lower energy costs to remain competitive, manufacturers want consistent power to streamline production, and young people are looking to expanded energy capacity as a driver of jobs and innovation.
As Kenya leans into nuclear energy, the government is betting on a future defined by reliable electricity, reduced costs and broader economic opportunity.
