A Historic Nuclear Deal has been signed between Kenya and the United States
Posted on : Thursday, 26th September 2024
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been inked by Kenya and the US in regards to the safe and secure deployment of nuclear technology. Sealing the deal took place in Vienna, Austria, during the 2024 International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference.
Musalia Mudavadi, the Prime Cabinet Secretary, spoke at the conference's general session the day before the historic agreement was signed. In an effort to address the nation's increasing energy needs, Mudavadi has presented Kenya's bold ambitions to include nuclear power in the nation's energy mix by 2035.
As of 2023, Kenya has an installed energy capacity of 3,321 MW, of which 863 MW came from geothermal energy; 838 MW from hydroelectric power; 436 MW from wind; 173 MW from solar energy; 2 MW from biomass; and 678 MW from thermal energy.
The nation still has a shortage of energy, though, even with these sources. According to experts, nuclear energy is essential for bridging this gap and advancing Kenya's long-term industrialization objectives.
Christopher Hanson served as the chairman of the US team. James Keter, director general of the KNRA, underlined the significance of the Memorandum of Understanding, saying that Kenya is going through an essential juncture and that "we must get it right."
We hold a great deal of power. There has never been a finer moment for this Memorandum of Understanding. In order to guarantee the responsible and efficient advancement of our nuclear program, we will collaborate with key players in the sector and other relevant parties to strengthen our regulatory structure," stated Keter.
Mr. Keter added that although KNRA does not always act as a promoter, its purpose is to guarantee that Kenya's nuclear program is carried out with the utmost safety and security for people's lives, property, and the environment.
"We believe the MoU will bring substantial benefits to the Kenyan economy," said Omondi Anyanga, chairman of the KNRA board, expressing confidence in the partnership.
Cooperation will take the form of cooperative research and training programs on nuclear safety, as well as the sharing of operational and regulatory experience.
Kenya and a number of other poor countries are investigating the potential uses of nuclear energy, such as its use in agriculture and health, beyond the production of electricity. Specialists emphasize that strong regulatory frameworks and international cooperation are critical to ensuring the safe and successful deployment of nuclear weapons as the nation advances its nuclear objectives.
Udavadi, Anyanga, Keter, ambassador Maurice Markoloo, CEO of the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) Justus Wabuyabo, board member Henry Rono of NuPEA, and secretary of KNRA Corporation Beth Mushi were among the members of Kenya's delegation to the discussions.
