The Nuclear Power and Energy Agency is finalizing plans for the construction of a Sh500 billion nuclear power plant in Kenya, according to the state agency Head of Legal Services Justus Wabuyabo.
The power plant is projected to generate 1,000 megawatts after connecting to the national grid upon completion.
Addressing the press in Eldoret during a one-day stakeholders’ forum, Wabuyabo said the plant would provide stable energy apart from creating job opportunities for the jobless qualified Kenyan youth.
Upon completion, the plant will be the first of its kind in the country and will create more than 1,000 jobs for the youth as well as indirect job opportunities for over 100,000 people.
Kenya will require safety engineers, safety officers, environmentalists, security officers and technicians as part of the required human resources.
The government, through its agencies, has rolled out public participation and awareness forums across the 47 counties to get the views and input of Kenyans ahead of the setting up of the multi-billion shillings plant.
Kwale and Kilifi counties in the Coast region have been identified as the most preferred location for the setting up of the nuclear power plant project as they are not prone to earthquake-related challenges.
“Once the nuclear power plant project is actualized, Kenyans will enjoy a drastic reduction of energy costs, and also the country is set to attract more investors,” said Wabuyabo.
Other benefits to the people living near the proposed nuclear power plant sites include improved infrastructure, construction of state-of-the-art learning institutions, hospitals and roads.
An environmental impact assessment will be conducted in the proposed location for the construction of the nuclear power plant to determine the viability of the project before work starts.
