Patricia Ndede, Director of Information, Advocacy and Communication at the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA), is playing a central role in explaining Kenya’s proposed nuclear power project to communities and stakeholders, particularly in Lenya Village, Bondo Constituency, Siaya County.
With more than 22 years of experience in media and communications, Ndede has worked with Nation Media Group, Capital Group, Huduma Kenya and the Retirement Benefits Authority. Her background in journalism, public relations, public education and crisis management provides valuable experience in communicating complex issues to the public.
NuPEA’s stakeholder engagements have brought forward questions concerning nuclear safety, environmental protection, spent fuel management, land acquisition, employment opportunities and infrastructure development. Residents have also raised the possibility of establishing a Community Liaison Committee to maintain communication between communities and the institutions involved.
Public engagement must go beyond public relations. Communities need clear, evidence-based information, honest answers to difficult questions and opportunities to participate meaningfully in decisions affecting their land, livelihoods and future. Safety assessments, regulatory approvals and environmental reviews must remain independent, transparent and grounded in evidence.
It also highlights the importance of inclusive engagement, ensuring that women, young people, fishing communities, farmers, traders and other residents have a voice in the process. Sustained communication through community meetings, local media, radio, printed materials and digital platforms can help maintain public access to information as the project progresses.
Ultimately, the proposed nuclear facility’s future will depend on technical, environmental, legal, economic and public participation processes. Ndede’s contribution lies in helping bridge the gap between national energy ambitions and community understanding, demonstrating why credible communication and public trust are essential to Kenya’s nuclear energy journey.