ODM leader Raila Odinga arrived at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) for a high-level stakeholders’ engagement meeting as Siaya County positions itself to host Kenya’s first nuclear power plant.
The meeting is being held under the theme 'Partnering for a Sustainable Energy Future: Kenya’s Nuclear Power'.
It brings together key figures, including Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, Senator Oburu Odinga, Members of Parliament, Members of the County Assembly, technical experts, and local community members.
Energy CS Wandayi had earlier said the Ministry of Energy is committed to expanding the country’s electricity generation capacity to match the demands of a growing industrial economy.
“This project will not only revolutionise our energy landscape but also serve as a legacy for President William Ruto,” Wandayi said.
“We are making ambitious plans to ensure the country has the capacity to support large-scale manufacturing and innovation.”
Kenya had identified Kwale, Kilifi, and Siaya as potential sites for the nuclear facility.
However, resistance from residents in Kilifi prompted the government to increase engagement efforts in Nyanza, where local leadership has shown more openness to the project.
The Siaya meeting will include a technical presentation by the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority (KNRA).
Community members have also been invited to ask questions and raise concerns.
In an Earlier interview, Justus Wabuyabo, CEO of the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency, said they are looking at an estimated investment of Sh305 billion and Sh500 billion spread across seven years.
“We aim to deliver this project through public-private partnerships.”
Kenya has already signed cooperation agreements with the United States and China, and is awaiting another with South Korea, to support aspects of the nuclear project.
Wabuyabo said the Siaya meeting would aim to identify the most suitable locations near Lake Victoria, as a large water body will be needed to cool the nuclear reactor
