Siaya Governor James Orengo hosted a high-level delegation led by the Chairman of the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NUPEA), Lawrence Gumbe, and the CEO of Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen), Peter Njenga, for follow-up discussions ahead of the historic groundbreaking of Kenya’s first nuclear power plant.
The groundbreaking ceremony is slated for March 1, 2027, signaling the start of a landmark project valued at Sh500 billion. The plant, part of Kenya’s long-term energy diversification strategy, is designed to provide clean, reliable, and affordable electricity, with an initial capacity of 2,000 megawatts (MW).
Orengo highlighted the transformative potential of the project for Siaya County and the national economy.
The construction phase is expected to generate approximately 10,000 jobs, spanning engineering, construction, and support services, while the operational phase will provide 1,200 permanent positions, including technical, administrative, and maintenance roles.
“This project not only enhances our energy security but also stimulates local economic growth, creates employment, and fosters industrial development,” Orengo said.
The nuclear power initiative forms a critical component of Kenya’s broader energy roadmap, which aims to diversify electricity generation, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and achieve sustainable energy targets. Once operational, the plant will significantly reduce power outages and provide a stable supply of electricity to support industry, commerce, and households.
During the Siaya meetings, the delegation focused on finalizing site preparations and construction logistics, community engagement strategies to ensure local participation and benefit, regulatory compliance and safety protocols in line with international nuclear standards and I integration with Kenya’s national electricity grid to optimize distribution and efficiency.
Prof. Gumbe emphasized that the project is a national priority and a model for future energy projects, while Eng. Njenga noted that KenGen’s technical expertise will ensure the plant is built to the highest safety and efficiency standards.
The Sh500 billion nuclear power plant represents a transformative step for Kenya’s energy landscape.
Beyond its immediate economic and employment benefits, the facility positions the country as a regional leader in nuclear energy adoption and a champion of sustainable, low-carbon power generation.
Governor Orengo concluded the meeting by reaffirming the county’s support for the project, underscoring that Siaya is committed to providing a conducive environment for its successful implementation.
With the groundbreaking scheduled for early 2027, Kenya is poised to embark on a new era of energy security, industrial growth, and sustainable development.
