Kenya Moves To Harness Nuclear Technology For Energy, Health, And Food Security

Kenya has taken a decisive step toward embracing nuclear science as a catalyst for national transformation through the unveiling of the draft Nuclear Science and Technology Policy and the Kenya Atomic Energy Agency Bill. Both instruments, now under public review, are designed to promote the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technology across key sectors including energy, health, agriculture, industry, and environmental management.
During a stakeholder validation forum in Nairobi, Principal Secretary for Science, Research, and Innovation Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak affirmed that the government’s initiative reflects a strong commitment to building a clear and coordinated national framework for nuclear research, innovation, and application. He explained that the policy and Bill will create an enabling environment for scientific advancement and industrial growth while maintaining the highest standards of safety and public trust.
The proposed Kenya Atomic Energy Agency (KAEA) will serve as the central institution overseeing all nuclear-related activities. It will integrate the functions of the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NUPEA) and the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority (KNRA) to ensure effective coordination, regulatory harmony, and alignment with international best practices.
As a long-standing member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) since 1965, Kenya is well placed to benefit from global expertise in nuclear management. Prof. Abdulrazak noted that establishing the KAEA represents a logical step in positioning Kenya as a regional hub for nuclear research, innovation, and technology transfer, fully aligned with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
The draft policy identifies four strategic objectives: developing a sustainable nuclear power programme, reinforcing safety and regulatory systems, promoting non-power nuclear applications, and nurturing skilled human capital to support a competitive local industry. The government envisions nuclear technology as a driver of progress in food security, healthcare, clean water access, and industrial development in addition to its energy potential.
Prof. Abdulrazak emphasized that the policy aims to reshape public perception of nuclear science by highlighting its broad benefits beyond electricity generation. In agriculture, nuclear techniques have already been applied to breed drought-resistant crops, enhance soil and water efficiency, and extend the shelf life of produce through modern preservation technologies. In health, nuclear medicine continues to expand cancer diagnosis and treatment capacity at facilities such as Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital, and new regional centers in Mombasa, Nakuru, and Garissa.
The Kenya Atomic Energy Agency Bill establishes the agency’s governance framework, detailing the formation of a Board of Directors, appointment of a Director-General, and recruitment of professional and technical staff. All nuclear-related projects in the country will be registered with the agency to enhance safety, oversight, and coordination in line with international obligations.
The framework also introduces a dedicated funding mechanism to ensure the agency’s financial stability and support for research, innovation, and capacity building. Universities and research institutions will be encouraged to align their academic programmes with the new policy by expanding training in nuclear science, radiation safety, and engineering disciplines.
Emphasizing inclusivity, the policy calls for the participation of youth, women, academia, and the private sector in advancing Kenya’s nuclear development agenda. Prof. Abdulrazak highlighted that collaboration across sectors will help Kenya transition toward a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy while maintaining the highest levels of safety and environmental protection.
Kenya is currently in Phase Two of the IAEA’s nine-step milestone process toward establishing a national nuclear power programme. This stage focuses on strengthening infrastructure, refining regulations, and deepening public engagement. The government expects nuclear energy to play a central role in achieving its goal of generating 10,000 megawatts of electricity to sustain industrialization and economic growth.
Prof. Abdulrazak expressed confidence that with continued investment, strong partnerships, and public awareness, Kenya is well on track to safely harness nuclear science for socio-economic transformation and sustainable development.
The draft policy and Bill will undergo further review following stakeholder feedback before being presented to Cabinet and Parliament for approval, marking a major step forward in Kenya’s journey toward a safe, modern, and nuclear-powered future.