Universities in the Lake Region are preparing to introduce specialised nuclear engineering programmes ahead of the proposed construction of a nuclear power plant in Siaya County, as the government moves to build local capacity for the industry.
Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) Chairman Prof Lawrence Gumbe said discussions were already under way with several universities to introduce a Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering and postgraduate diploma programmes. The courses are expected to prepare nuclear engineers, scientists, technicians and other specialists who will be required during the construction, operation and maintenance of the facility.
Prof Gumbe spoke in Kisumu during a workshop attended by more than 100 academics and professionals representing 15 institutions, including 11 universities from the Lake Region.
"We are already in discussions with several universities on a Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering and a postgraduate diploma in Nuclear Engineering," he said.
He said universities would play a central role not only in training professionals but also in conducting research, generating local knowledge and educating the public about nuclear energy. NuPEA is also engaging Kisumu National Polytechnic to develop technical training programmes that will produce technicians and technologists for the emerging industry.
Universities are expected to contribute expertise across engineering, natural sciences and social sciences. Maseno University Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Administration, Finance and Development Prof David Ongarora said the institution was committed to supporting the initiative and had the capacity to collaborate with NuPEA and the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) in advancing research and professional training for the sector.
Kenya also plans to establish its first nuclear research reactor at Konza, with discussions continuing on the possibility of developing additional research facilities elsewhere in the country. Nuclear energy requires specialised professionals in reactor engineering, radiation protection, nuclear physics, environmental monitoring, safety management and radioactive waste handling.
The government is targeting March 2027 for the groundbreaking of the plant. Prof Gumbe said President William Ruto was keen to see the project advance within the proposed timeline, adding that government agencies were working together to prepare for its implementation.
KenGen has been appointed owner and operator of the facility and is expected to work closely with NuPEA, universities and other government institutions. KenGen General Manager for Corporate Services Beatrice Kandie said nuclear energy would complement the company's existing generation sources, which include hydroelectric, geothermal and wind power. She said about 92 per cent of KenGen's generation mix was green and described nuclear power as an important addition for grid stability.
"Nuclear power is firm power. It is baseload power, and it is going to enable the stability of our grid," she said.
Ms Kandie said the project would require substantial human resource investment, underscoring the need to prepare engineers, craftsmen and other professionals before the facility becomes operational. She added that community engagement and corporate social responsibility programmes would form part of its implementation.
The proposed facility has attracted public debate, particularly over its location, environmental implications, land issues and the safety of surrounding communities.
Prof Gumbe defended NuPEA's public participation record, saying consultations began on June 26, 2025, at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, where the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was guest of honour. He said more than 10 additional meetings were held in the project area in September 2025, followed by further engagements this year involving beach management units, faith-based organisations, landowners and other community groups.
He acknowledged that one meeting involving landowners was disrupted, with some participants reportedly assaulted. He maintained that people opposed to the project had been given opportunities to present their concerns through discussions and written petitions, and said more than 10 peaceful engagement sessions had since been held, with Bondo MP Gideon Ochanda and other local leaders participating.
Prof Gumbe also cited the involvement of Siaya Governor James Orengo, who he said had travelled to South Korea with NuPEA and KenGen officials to explore nuclear technology options for the facility.
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