NuPEA Addresses Protests Over Siaya Nuclear Plant Plans

• •NuPEA is facing protests from Siaya residents opposing a nuclear power plant.
• •Community concerns include environmental safety, health risks, and lack of consultation.
• •NuPEA plans grassroots engagement to address local fears and ensure community consent.

The Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) is responding to protests in Siaya County against a proposed Sh500 billion nuclear power plant. Residents expressed concerns over environmental safety, public health, and inadequate community consultation. In response, NuPEA CEO Justus Wabuyabo assured that no construction would occur without community consent and emphasized ongoing stakeholder engagement. The agency plans to conduct grassroots sensitization to educate locals about the project. Protests erupted on May 21, 2026, with residents chanting anti-nuclear slogans and carrying placards. The project aims to generate between 1,000 and 3,000 megawatts of electricity and is scheduled to begin construction in 2027. Despite local opposition, some political leaders continue to support the initiative as vital for Kenya's industrialization.