Kenya’s nuclear aspirations are gaining momentum, with the government actively engaging international partners to fulfill its goal of building a nuclear power plant by 2034. This ambition aligns with the country’s desire to meet rising energy demands and transition towards a low-carbon energy mix. The recent signing of a historic nuclear cooperation agreement with the U.S. signals Kenya’s commitment to leveraging American expertise and technology for the project. Meanwhile, Russia remains a significant contender, pushing forward with its offer to assist Kenya through the provision of nuclear expertise and technology under Rosatom’s expanding African footprint. The competition between these two nuclear powerhouses, alongside China’s emerging influence in financing infrastructure, positions Kenya as a battleground for competing geopolitical interests in nuclear development.

Despite Kenya’s active role in the global nuclear conversation, opposition within the country remains, particularly from environmental activists and local communities in areas like Kilifi, where the plant is proposed to be built. Concerns about potential environmental degradation, water usage, and safety risks are driving resistance to the project. Activists have also questioned the economic viability of nuclear power, given the country’s significant investments in renewable energy sources such as geothermal, solar, and wind. Kenya’s government, however, continues to emphasize the long-term benefits of nuclear energy, positioning it as a solution to future energy shortages while enhancing the country’s industrial capacity and regional leadership in sustainable energy.

In light of these developments, Kenya must carefully consider its approach to nuclear energy. While the partnerships with global powers offer an avenue to modernize its energy infrastructure, there are crucial issues to address. First, Kenya must invest in robust regulatory frameworks to ensure nuclear safety and non-proliferation compliance. Additionally, transparency in project execution and addressing public concerns about environmental and social impacts will be crucial. Diversifying partnerships beyond Russia and the U.S., perhaps through exploring China’s SMR technology, could also provide a balanced approach to mitigating reliance on any single nuclear superpower. By taking these steps, Kenya can navigate the complex interplay of global nuclear diplomacy while advancing its national energy interests responsibly.

References:

IAI Russian Nuclear Diplomacy in the Global South, and How to Respond to It

Intellinews Kenya signs historic pact with US to advance its nuclear power plans

NEA NEA visits Kenya to explore co-operation, participates in discussions on advancing nuclear energy programmes in Africa

The Africa Report Kenya aims to build nuclear power plant by 2034, says minister

The EastAfrican Kenya to host second US-African nuclear summit

GZERO Russia invites Africa to go nuclear

ROSATOM Atoms Empowering Africa winners travel to Russia to see nuclear innovations and cultural destinations