Siaya Governor James Orengo has backed plans to build Kenya’s first nuclear power plant in Siaya, saying the long-term economic benefits could outweigh short-term political considerations. Speaking in Vienna during the 70th International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference, Orengo met IAEA Deputy Director General Hua Liu to discuss technical support, technology transfer and safety oversight for the proposed project.
The proposed facility is planned along the shores of Lake Victoria, with NuPEA having identified potential sites in the area. Orengo said the project could become one of Kenya’s largest investments, creating opportunities in engineering, construction, operations and other specialised fields while driving investment in roads, healthcare and other infrastructure.
Orengo said the county would support the project while insisting on rigorous public participation, proper legal procedures and fair compensation for any land required. Siaya County has been working with NuPEA on a stakeholder engagement strategy to inform communities and address concerns around safety, environmental protection and land acquisition.
The government has targeted 2027 for construction and 2034 for grid connection, with the plant initially expected to generate about 2,000MW, although recent government statements have placed the potential capacity at 2,000–5,000MW. Earlier plans indicated the project could create thousands of jobs during construction and significant specialised employment once operational.