Energy ministry unveils plan to build nuclear power plant in Siaya County

The Cabinet Secretary of Energy and Petroleum Opiyo Wandayi, during the launch of The Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) Foundation officially and its ambitious scholarship programme, dubbed ‘Inuka’, on 7th April 2025 at Kenya Institute of Special Education(KISE). [Edward Kiplimo, Standard]

The Ministry of Energy has announced plans to set up a multibillion-dollar nuclear power plant in Siaya County.

The ministry is currently working on identifying the most suitable location around the lake to host the project.

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi said his ministry will hold consultations with stakeholders in Siaya County, including Governor James Orengo, Senator Oburu Oginga, all MPs, MCAs, and the local community, to agree on the modalities for the establishment of the project.

He said the government has an elaborate plan to increase electricity generation capacity and ensure an adequate supply, which is why it is working on establishing a nuclear power plant to complement existing traditional energy sources.

“This power plant will supply electricity to industries, businesses, and homes. As a country that is rapidly industrialising, the demand for electricity is going to continue rising, and that is why the government is enhancing and expanding our energy generation capacity,” he said.

Wandayi was speaking in Ugunja Constituency, where he commissioned rural electrification projects and launched initiatives by the Kenya Pipeline Company.

He noted that the stakeholders’ meeting will be held on 26 June 2025 to explore the proposals.

Justus Wabuyabo, the CEO of the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency, said they had identified three potential sites in the country for nuclear power plant projects — including locations in Kwale, Kilifi, and a third in Siaya around Lake Victoria.

“There are several possible points around the lake where this project could be established. Studies will be conducted to determine the exact site,” he said.

Dr Wabuyabo said the stakeholders’ meeting will also involve scholars from Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology.