Kenya plans a nuclear power plant in Siaya as Russia pursues energy partnerships across Africa.
Rosatom is discussing large nuclear plants with four African countries, while Kenya targets 2027 to begin building its proposed Siaya facility.
Russia nuclear talks with Uganda, Ethiopia, Ghana and Egypt are advancing as Moscow seeks more energy partnerships across Africa. Kenya, meanwhile, continues to pursue its own plans for a nuclear power plant in Siaya County.
Russia’s state-owned nuclear corporation, Rosatom, is discussing large nuclear power plants with the four countries. The proposed facilities could increase electricity generation and help meet growing demand, while also supporting industrial development.
Russia nuclear talks cover large and floating plants
Rosatom Chief Executive Alexei Likhachev said the corporation could supply plants of different sizes and configurations. He said its approach reflects each country’s needs, with partnerships extending beyond individual projects.
Uganda and Ethiopia are among the countries negotiating with Rosatom, while Ghana is discussing a large nuclear facility. Egypt already hosts Russia’s El Dabaa nuclear power plant project.
Russia is also promoting floating nuclear power technology across the continent. Nine African countries have expressed significant interest, with Egypt, Tanzania, Togo and Namibia already holding detailed negotiations.
The developments followed the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow, where nuclear cooperation featured among the main areas of engagement. President William Ruto attended the gathering and met Russian President Vladimir Putin on its sidelines.
Kenya targets 2027 start for nuclear projects
Meanwhile, Kenya has proposed a 2,000MW nuclear power plant in Siaya County as part of its long-term electricity plans. The government expects construction to begin in 2027, with commissioning targeted for 2034.
Kenya also plans to build its first nuclear research reactor at Konza Technopolis. Construction of that facility is expected to start in 2027 as well.
The research reactor will support scientific studies, training and peaceful nuclear applications. It therefore serves a different purpose from the proposed Siaya plant, which forms part of Kenya’s electricity generation plans.
Ruto’s meeting with Putin came as Kenya continued seeking investment and economic partnerships with Moscow. Across Africa, however, nuclear electricity generation remains limited to one operating plant: South Africa’s Koeberg facility. Built using French technology, it entered service in the mid-1980s.
