Government to proceed with construction of Uyombo Nuclear Plant amid environmental concerns
Government Spokesperson Dr Isaac Mwaura assured residents that stringent international safety protocols are being followed to safeguard both public health and livelihoods.
The government has confirmed that the contentious nuclear power plant slated for construction in Uyombo, Kilifi County, will proceed as planned, despite widespread public concern over the safety of the local community.
Government Spokesperson Dr Isaac Mwaura, while speaking in Mombasa, sought to allay fears surrounding the nuclear initiative.
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He assured residents that stringent international safety protocols are being followed to safeguard both public health and livelihoods.
His statement comes in the wake of growing unease voiced by opposition leaders during a recent political tour of the Coast region, where they questioned the plant’s potential impact on public health and the tourism sector.
Dr Mwaura clarified that the nuclear plant forms an essential part of Kenya’s broader energy strategy aimed at reducing electricity costs, expanding the national grid, and advancing cleaner energy alternatives.
“We have now entered the second phase of the project, which is expected to run through to 2027, following the successful completion of the preliminary phase. This stage includes the establishment of legal and institutional frameworks, such as a dedicated nuclear regulatory authority,” he said.
The project, backed by both the Kenyan Government and the World Bank, is projected to cost around Sh500 billion and will produce an estimated 1,000 megawatts of electricity once fully operational. It is one of several initiatives under the government’s plan to diversify Kenya’s energy sources and cater to the rising demand, currently pegged at 3,321 MW.
“With Kenya ranked as the third-largest economy in Sub-Saharan Africa, there is a need to scale up electricity supply to as much as 30,000 MW to support sustainable development and industrial growth,” Dr Mwaura explained.
“Nuclear power, alongside geothermal and hydroelectric sources, provides a stable, eco-friendly, and dependable option.”
He dismissed assertions that the project poses health risks, stressing that comprehensive safety reviews have been conducted in accordance with global standards. He cited a recent mission by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which assessed Kenya’s nuclear preparedness.
“All designated sites have undergone in-depth evaluation. We are fully aware of past incidents such as the 1986 Chernobyl disaster and are committed to avoiding such risks by adhering to the highest safety measures,” said Dr Mwaura.
Beyond energy production, the spokesperson highlighted the wider applications of nuclear technology, including in oncology, medical equipment sterilisation, and food preservation.
The plant is anticipated to create at least 10,000 direct jobs, offering a significant boost to the regional economy. Dr Mwaura urged residents to disregard misleading narratives and reiterated that inclusive public participation remains integral to the project's implementation.
He also addressed concerns regarding land compensation. “Only local landowners will be compensated. Allegations of outsiders being issued with title deeds are under investigation, and action will be taken against any wrongdoing,” he clarified.
Kenya is among a small number of African countries pursuing nuclear energy development. Currently, only South Africa operates a nuclear facility. Kenya joins Egypt and Ghana in actively working towards launching nuclear power programmes, with 2034 set as Kenya’s target for commissioning its first plant.
Dr Mwaura concluded by highlighting broader government plans, including a forthcoming climate works programme modelled after the former Kazi Mtaani initiative, which aims to create over 110,000 employment opportunities nationwide.
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