President William Ruto addresses the International Conference on Nuclear Energy at KICC, Nairobi County, on March 25, 2026
By Peace Muthoka
Kenya is stepping up its search for reliable and affordable electricity, with nuclear power now taking centre stage in the country’s long-term energy plan.
President William Ruto says the move will help expand power generation from the current 3,300 megawatts to 10,000 megawatts, a target the government sees as key to unlocking jobs, industries and economic growth.
Speaking at the International Conference on Nuclear Energy at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Ruto said at least 3,000 megawatts will come from nuclear energy. He noted that countries that have achieved stable growth have invested heavily in dependable power.
“Energy is the lifeblood of industrialisation,” Ruto said, adding that Kenya must secure a steady supply to support businesses and innovation.
At the same time, he sought to calm public concerns, assuring Kenyans that nuclear energy is safe when handled under strict global standards. He said the government will put in place strong laws and regulations to guarantee safety, security and accountability.
Further, Ruto explained that nuclear energy will provide stable baseload power, helping to address frequent fluctuations in supply while meeting the country’s growing electricity demand.
His remarks come as Kenya continues to push for cheaper electricity, with current tariffs averaging about nine US cents per unit, higher than some regional competitors.
Meanwhile, Siaya Governor James Orengo said his county is ready to host the country’s first nuclear power plant. He argued that embracing nuclear energy is no longer optional for countries aiming to achieve first-world status.
“We must move with the rest of the world,” Orengo said, while dismissing fears about safety. He added that proper information and safeguards will be key in building public trust.
In addition, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi said nuclear power will play a central role in achieving the 10,000 megawatt target.
He noted that stable and affordable energy will drive Kenya’s 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 for a stable and resilient grid that can power our transformation.”
As part of the plan, the government intends to roll out at least 3,000 megawatts of nuclear energy within the next seven years.
Consequently, Kenya’s nuclear journey is expected to begin next year with the introduction of Small Modular Reactors in Siaya County. Construction of a 2,000 megawatt plant is also set to start, with commissioning targeted for 2034.
Officials say the project will be implemented by the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency in partnership with the Kenya Electricity Generating Company.
At the policy level, the government is reviewing regulatory structures, including plans to move nuclear oversight from the health ministry to the energy ministry to streamline coordination.
Globally, nuclear power continues to play a major role in advanced economies, offering clean and stable energy. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, only South Africa currently produces nuclear power in Africa, while Egypt is building its own facility.
For many Kenyans, however, the conversation goes beyond megawatts and policy.
Traders want cheaper electricity to grow their businesses. Manufacturers are looking for stable power to cut production costs. Young people hope expanded energy will open doors to jobs and innovation.
And so, as Kenya turns to nuclear power, the promise is simple but significant lights that stay on, costs that come down, and an economy that works for more people.
