Kenya is set to host the second US-Africa nuclear forum in August as the nation prepares to join the ranks of countries generating electricity from nuclear power.
This forum aims to provide more insights into nuclear technology and explore potential engagement agreements as African nations increasingly consider nuclear power generation.
Attracting Top Officials and Pursuing Partnerships
The forum will bring together top officials from the U.S. nuclear energy sector to share expertise and discuss collaboration opportunities. Kenya intends to leverage this platform to make a significant announcement regarding its nuclear power program, seeking political commitment from top leadership to instill confidence in technology providers involved in nuclear development.
Kenya has ambitious plans to establish a nuclear power plant and has identified Kilifi, on the Coast, as the preferred location, with Kwale as an alternative.
The Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (Nupea) is actively engaging with Kilifi County residents to raise awareness and prepare the ground for the plant’s construction.
Nuclear Power in Africa: Current and Future Developments
Currently, South Africa is the only African country generating electricity from a nuclear power plant. Egypt is also constructing plants with a capacity of 4,400 megawatts of electric power (MWe). Kenya and Ghana are actively pursuing the development of nuclear power plants to meet their growing energy needs.
Kenya has set an ambitious goal of commencing nuclear power plant construction in 2027 and commissioning it by 2034. However, the project faces challenges, including raising awareness and gaining acceptance among Kenyans in Kilifi, as well as securing funding for the plant.
Strengthening US-Africa Collaboration in Nuclear Energy
The summit presents an opportunity for the U.S. to deepen its involvement in African countries interested in establishing nuclear power plants. With approximately 18% of its electricity generated from nuclear power, the U.S. is a leading user of this technology.
The forum will feature keynote speakers such as Andrew Worral, Director of Nuclear Energy Programs at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and DeLeah Lockridge, Group Leader for Nuclear Operations and Licensing at the same institution. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, an agency within the U.S. Department of Energy, is responsible for conducting research and providing policy insights on nuclear energy, among other tasks.