Ruto Announces Plan for 2,000MW Nuclear Plant in Siaya by 2034

Kenya plans to begin construction of a 2,000-megawatt nuclear power plant in Siaya County in 2027, with commissioning scheduled for 2034, President William Ruto has confirmed.

Speaking at the International Conference on Nuclear Energy in Nairobi, the President said the project forms part of a broader effort to expand the country’s installed electricity capacity from 3,300MW to at least 10,000MW within five to seven years. Nuclear energy is expected to contribute 3,000MW of this target.

He described nuclear power as a reliable, low-carbon source of energy that can meet growing demand, improve grid stability, and support industrial development. The President noted concerns about safety but stated that nuclear technology has a strong safety record in developed countries. 

He added that nuclear energy produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions and can operate continuously, making it suitable for long-term energy planning. The project is also expected to create economic opportunities. Between 5,000 and 12,000 jobs are projected during peak construction, including both manual and specialised roles. 

Once operational, the plant will require hundreds of permanent technical staff. The government plans to expand vocational and technical training programmes to prepare the workforce.

Infrastructure development in Siaya County will accompany the project. Planned upgrades include roads, water systems, healthcare facilities, schools, and telecommunications. Officials expect additional growth in housing, hospitality, retail, and agriculture linked to the plant.

The facility is designed to operate for 60 to 80 years, with a capital recovery period of under 20 years. Government estimates indicate that nuclear power could reduce electricity costs to between 4 and 5.5 US cents per unit.