President Ruto reveals 2027 start for 2,000MW nuclear plant in Siaya

President William Ruto has announced that Kenya will begin the construction of a 2,000-megawatt nuclear power plant in Siaya County in 2027. Speaking during the International Conference on Nuclear Energy in Nairobi, the President detailed a strategic shift to incorporate nuclear power into the national grid to address long-term energy deficits.

The project is a central pillar of the government's plan to expand the country's installed electricity capacity from the current 3,300 megawatts to 10,000 megawatts over the next several years. Out of this target, 3,000 megawatts are expected to be generated from nuclear sources.

According to the project timeline, the facility is scheduled for commissioning in 2034. President Ruto noted that the investment is intended to lower the cost of power and enhance the country's industrial competitiveness. Projections suggest that nuclear generation could reduce electricity costs to between 4 and 5.5 US cents per unit.

The Nuclear Power and Energy Agency and the Kenya Electricity Generating Company will spearhead the development. KenGen has been designated as the owner and operator of the future facility. The plant will be located in the Lake Victoria region, specifically in Bondo, where water from the lake will serve as a necessary coolant for the reactors.

During the peak construction phase, the project is expected to create between 5,000 and 12,000 jobs. These roles will span from manual labor to highly specialized engineering positions. The locals have been invited to partner in the journey, with the Siaya County Government already committing land for project offices and stakeholder coordination.

President Ruto emphasized that the government will enact comprehensive legislation to meet global standards for nuclear safety and security. This regulatory framework is intended to build international partnerships and domestic confidence. The move to Siaya follows previous site assessments and stakeholder engagements across various potential locations.

The Sh500 billion project is also expected to trigger broader infrastructure improvements in the region. Plans include the expansion of all-weather roads, enhanced water supply systems, and the construction of modern healthcare facilities to support the incoming workforce and the surrounding community.

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Siaya Governor James Orengo joined the President at the conference, expressing support for the initiative. The leaders noted that stable, base-load power from nuclear energy is essential for the country's transition into a more industrialized economy.

The project is designed with an operational lifespan of between 60 and 80 years. This long-term horizon is viewed by the administration as a cornerstone for sustainable development, providing a consistent energy supply that is less vulnerable to the fluctuations of fossil fuel markets or weather-dependent renewables.