National Assembly of Kenya to Strengthen Laws, Boost Funding for Nuclear Programme

The National Assembly of Kenya has pledged to enact additional legislation and increase budgetary allocations to accelerate the country’s nuclear energy programme, Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has announced.

Speaking during a meeting at Parliament Buildings with the leadership of Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) and the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA), Wetang’ula reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to strengthening the legal and financial framework underpinning Kenya’s nuclear ambitions.

The discussions focused on reinforcing existing statutes, including the National Nuclear Regulatory Act, and enhancing financial support through the relevant House Committee to facilitate implementation of nuclear energy technology.

“Nuclear technology has the potential to deliver economic benefits, support climate change mitigation, and advance the Government Development Agenda,” Wetang’ula said, underscoring the strategic importance of the programme.

Milestones and Legal Framework

The Speaker welcomed the completion of the Strategic Environmental and Social Assessment (SESA), describing it as a critical milestone in the development of the National Nuclear Power Programme (NPP). He noted progress at identified sites in Siaya County and Kilifi County, as well as ongoing plans to establish Kenya’s first nuclear power plant.

Wetang’ula emphasized Parliament’s constitutional role as custodian of public interest and architect of the programme’s legal foundation through legislation, funding approvals, and treaty ratification.

“As the first regulator for electricity in the country, I am a champion for the programme and offer my legislative and funding support to take the nuclear programme forward and ensure completion of the ongoing Phase II process,” he stated, adding that parliamentary backing sends a strong signal to the global community about Kenya’s readiness to join nuclear-powered nations.

Call for Strategic Status and Funding

NuPEA leadership appealed for enhanced funding, warning that Phase II requires substantial capital for technical studies and that delays could inflate overall project costs.

KenGen, designated as the owner-operator of Kenya’s first nuclear power plant, will oversee technology selection, bid preparation and evaluation, contract negotiations, project management, and applications for construction and operational licences.

NuPEA Chief Executive Officer Justus Wabuyabo urged lawmakers to pass a resolution designating the Nuclear Power Programme as a Project of Strategic National Importance. He said such a move would fast-track land acquisition, grid integration, and inter-ministerial approvals while reinforcing Kenya’s credibility with international partners.

KenGen Chairperson Alfred Agoi Masadia called on Members of Parliament to spearhead constituency-level engagements to demystify nuclear energy and counter misinformation, particularly in potential coastal host communities.

The meeting was also attended by Energy Committee Chairperson David Gikaria, KenGen CEO and Managing Director Eng. Peter Njenga, NuPEA Board Director Dr Anne Michura, and KenGen Board Director Umuro Wario.