The Ministry of Energy and Petroleum has revealed plans by the national government to set up Kenya’s first nuclear power plant in Siaya County.

The project aims to boost electricity access and support economic growth across the country.

Energy Cabinet Secretary James Opiyo Wandayi confirmed the government's intention, highlighting that the Kenya Kwanza administration is committed to expanding the national power grid.

He noted that the upcoming nuclear facility would not only increase energy availability but also provide job opportunities and stimulate economic activity in Siaya.

Wandayi made the remarks on June 14, 2025, after overseeing the commissioning of rural electrification projects that connected 117 homes in Rang’ala village and 76 in Asango village, both located in Ugunja constituency.

“The government is committed to setting up a nuclear power station in Siaya to generate electricity and open up employment opportunities for locals,” he said.

He also dismissed political criticism, stressing that the administration is focused on delivering key development initiatives rather than engaging in political distractions.

The Cabinet Secretary also raised alarm over the increasing incidents of vandalism targeting electricity infrastructure, calling on members of the public to stay alert and work closely with security agencies to stop the trend.

He highlighted the substantial financial resources invested by the government in expanding electricity access, warning that the destructive actions of a few individuals could derail progress meant to benefit entire communities.

Accompanied by senior officials from the Ministry of Energy, including Beatrice Njuguna, the General Manager of the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), Wandayi underscored the importance of protecting the new installations.

Njuguna urged residents to make productive use of the power to uplift their economic and social lives.