Kenya’s Nuclear Dream Edges Closer as Officials Tour World’s Largest Nuclear Plant

Kenya has taken another step towards its plans to introduce nuclear power to its energy sources after a study mission to Ontario, Canada, which was aimed at strengthening the country’s readiness for the first nuclear power plant.

The Canada Kenya Nuclear Engagement Program brought together officials from KenGen, the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA), and other stakeholders to learn from Canada’s established nuclear energy sector.

According to KenGen, the visit exposed the Kenyan delegation to key aspects of nuclear power development, including plant operations, regulatory frameworks, workforce development, safety culture, waste management and supply chain systems.

The engagement forms part of Kenya’s efforts to advance its readiness under the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) milestones framework.

Purpose Of Visit

KenGen Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Peter Njenga said the visit provided valuable insights into the owner-operator model used in mature nuclear markets and helped shape Kenya’s long-term plans for nuclear energy development.

Kenya has identified nuclear power as a potential source of reliable base load electricity to support industrialization, economic growth and increasing energy demand.

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In December 2025, KenGen had announced plans for an initial nuclear project with an estimated capacity of 2,000 megawatts, with longer-term ambitions to expand nuclear generation to approximately 6,000 megawatts.

During the tour, the delegation visited several institutions within Canada’s nuclear sector, including Bruce Power, the world’s largest operating nuclear power facility with an installed capacity of 6,400MW.

Nuclear Energy

The team also engaged with AtkinsRéalis, the steward of Canada’s CANDU reactor technology, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, McMaster University and the Nuclear Waste Management Organization.

The delegation was introduced to Canada’s experience in reactor technology, nuclear waste management, skills development and research partnerships.

Officials said the visit highlighted the importance of building strong institutions, developing local expertise and ensuring public participation in nuclear energy projects.

Speaking during the program, Head of Cooperation at the High Commission of Canada to Kenya, Sophie Price noted that successful nuclear programs require long-term investment in people, institutions and workforce development in addition to technology.

Nuclear Energy

The mission also explored how nuclear energy projects can contribute to local economic growth through job creation, infrastructure development and expansion of industrial supply chains.

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KenGen said the lessons from Canada will help inform Kenya’s nuclear development strategy as the country continues preparations for the proposed introduction of nuclear power.

The company maintained that the project remains focused on meeting international safety standards while supporting Kenya’s long-term energy security and economic transformation goals.

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Kenyan delegation pose for a group photo during a visit to the Municipality of Kincardine, host community of Bruce Power in Canada
PHOTO/Standard