Kenya signs landmark cooperation deal on nuclear energy with South Korea

Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute president Han Gyu Joo (second left), Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) CEO Justus Wabuyabo with Science, Research and Innovation Principal Secretary Abdulrazak Shaukat during the signing of agreement in Vienna on September 16, 2025/COURTESY

In a major boost to the clean energy ambitions, Kenya has sealed a major partnership with South Korea’s top nuclear research institute ( KAERI) to advance cooperation in nuclear research and development.

The agreement, between Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) and Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI), was signed on the sidelines of the ongoing 69th International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference at the Vienna International Centre.

NuPEA Justus Wabuyabo and KAERI President Han Gyu Joo inked the pact, with the ceremony witnessed by Science, Research and Innovation Principal Secretary Abdulrazak Shaukat.

Shaukat is leading the Kenya’s delegation in the conference.

The MoU, Wabuyabo said, underscores Kenya’s ambition to build a solid foundation for nuclear infrastructure, particularly through the Kenya Nuclear Research Reactor (KNRR) project, which is already under implementation by NuPEA.

He described the deal as “a significant milestone that reaffirms Kenya’s commitment to advancing nuclear science and technology as a driver of national development.”

“This new agreement will strengthen collaborative efforts to further advance both nuclear power and research reactor programmes in Kenya, ultimately contributing to the nation's long-term energy security, scientific progress, and industrial growth,” he said.

The KNRR is central to Kenya’s long-term nuclear programme and is expected to provide wide-ranging benefits across health, agriculture, industry, energy, and research.

It is also aligned with the government’s Vision 2030 and Bottom-Up Transformation Agenda (BETA), both of which prioritise sustainable energy solutions and scientific innovation.

The collaboration with KAERI builds on previous successful engagement, including the completion of the feasibility study for the KNRR project.

NuPEA has already undertaken crucial groundwork such as stakeholder needs assessments, strategic planning, economic analysis, and site evaluations.

Han Gyu hailed the partnership, noting that “KAERI and NuPEA share a mutual vision of harnessing nuclear technology for peaceful, socio-economic development.

“This agreement strengthens our bond and sets the stage for impactful cooperation,” he said.

Both institutions pledged to conduct their collaboration with transparency and responsibility while advancing mutual benefits.

The strengthened partnership is expected to boost Kenya’s nuclear R&D capacity, enhance local expertise, and secure the nation’s long-term energy future.

With the new MoU, Kenya positions itself among emerging economies seeking to responsibly embrace nuclear technology for sustainable growth, as the country looks to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.