Faith Nyasuguta
Kenya will host the second nuclear forum between the US and Africa in August as it aims to join the ranks of nations generating part of their electricity from nuclear power. The forum will attract top officials from the US nuclear energy sector, offering insights on the technology and exploring potential engagement agreements as more African countries pursue nuclear power generation.
Kenya plans to establish a nuclear power plant, with Kilifi on the Coast chosen as the preferred site, and Kwale as an alternative. The Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (Nupea), which oversees the technology, is currently engaging with Kilifi County residents to raise awareness and pave the way for the plant’s construction.
“Kenya will use this forum to make a significant announcement about our nuclear power program,” said Justus Wabuyabo, CEO of Nupea, on Monday. “This falls into something we call political commitment, where top leadership will provide assurance to technology providers dealing with nuclear technology.”
South Africa is currently the only African country generating electricity from a nuclear power plant, while Egypt is constructing plants with a capacity of 4,400 megawatts (MWe). Kenya and Ghana are also racing to build nuclear power plants. Kenya has set an ambitious target to begin constructing its nuclear power plant in 2027 and commission it by 2034.
However, Kenya faces several challenges, including raising awareness and gaining acceptance of the project among Kilifi residents and securing funding for the plant. The summit presents an opportunity for the US to deepen its involvement with African countries keen on setting up nuclear power plants.
In the US, about 18 percent of electricity is generated from nuclear power plants, making it a leading user of the technology. Key speakers at the forum will include Andrew Worral, director of Nuclear Energy Programs at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and DeLeah Lockridge, group leader for Nuclear Operations and Licensing at the same institution.
Oak Ridge National Laboratory is part of the US Department of Energy’s Science and Energy Laboratory and is responsible for conducting research and providing policy insights on nuclear energy.
As Kenya prepares for this significant step, the forum will serve as a platform to announce its nuclear ambitions and gain international support and expertise, marking a crucial moment in the country’s energy future.
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