KenGen to Run First Nuclear Plant as Nation Targets 10GW Power Boost

Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum Hon. Opiyo Wandayi (centre) presiding over the signing of an MoU establishing a Joint Engagement Framework for the nation’s nuclear power readiness, as KenGen CEO Eng. Peter Njenga (right) and Nuclear Power and Energy Agency CEO Justus Wabuyabo (left), together with board chairpersons from both institutions, display the signed agreement in Nairobi on Monday, December 1, 2025.

The country has moved a step closer to introducing nuclear energy after appointing Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen) as the operator of its first nuclear power plant. The plan is part of the government’s push to add up to 10 gigawatts of new electricity in the coming years to support economic growth and ensure reliable power supply.

Speaking during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between KenGen and the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) on Monday. Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi announced the move saying it supports President William Ruto’s goal of expanding the nation’s energy capacity and securing a dependable, low-carbon source of baseload power. The first plant is expected to produce about 2GW, with plans to grow nuclear generation to 6GW over time.

“This marks the beginning of our nuclear-power era,” Wandayi said. He added that choosing KenGen brings technical strength, public confidence and long-term stability to the programme.

The MoU sets up a Joint Engagement Framework between the two institutions to guide preparations for nuclear energy. Officials say it will drive one of the widest public-education and engagement efforts the country has seen in the energy sector. The initiative will focus on sharing clear, accurate information and involving communities as the nation explores nuclear power as part of its future energy mix.

Wandayi said the framework will help “deepen public awareness, strengthen stakeholder engagement and prepare the ground for a reliable low-carbon baseload option.”

Also speaking, KenGen Board Chairman Alfred Agoi welcomed the decision, saying the company’s long experience in running major power plants makes it well-placed to lead the next phase.

“We are ready to help the country develop its first nuclear power plant,” he said.

KenGen Managing Director and CEO Peter Njenga described the partnership as a “bold step” for the nation’s energy security, noting that nuclear power is becoming a key option for countries looking for stable and affordable clean energy.

“KenGen has been at the centre of the country’s clean-energy journey,from hydropower to geothermal and wind. Nuclear is the next frontier,” he said. Njenga added that the company will ensure citizens receive factual, timely and easy-to-understand information throughout the process.

NuPEA CEO Justus Wabuyabo said the agreement marks the shift from long-term planning to real readiness for nuclear development.

Under the MoU, the two agencies will form a Joint Working Group to lead countrywide public engagement, train journalists and local leaders, host technical forums, map key stakeholders and create a feedback system for communities. The team will also support early site-assessment work, with both sides promising open communication and full public participation.

Officials say the long-term goal is to provide more reliable electricity, reduce outages and stabilize power tariffs, creating an energy system capable of supporting manufacturing, digital industries and a growing economy.