As Africa continues to focus on renewable energy, the push towards nuclear energy has been gaining momentum in Kenya as the country seeks to overcome its energy access challenges and transition to cleaner sources. There has been active exploration of the potential of small modular reactors (SMRs) and micro reactors (MRs) as viable solutions to its growing energy demands.
In fact, this ambition was a key topic of discussion at the recent Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa held in Kigali, Rwanda, where experts and policymakers emphasized the need for innovative financing and regional collaboration to unlock Africa’s nuclear energy potential.
Financing for the sector continues to be a major hurdle, with Africa facing an estimated annual infrastructure financing gap of Sh12.92 trillion ($100 billion)—out of a total need of Sh21.97 trillion ($170 billion), according to the African Development Bank.
Like many of its African peers, the government has been exploring innovative funding models to bridge this gap while advancing its nuclear ambitions. Since establishing the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) in 2014, Kenya has worked closely with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to develop regulatory frameworks and technical expertise.
According to Rafael Grossi, IAEA Director General, Africa must not be left behind in the global shift toward low-emission energy. “Nothing is preventing Africa from claiming its place in the evolving global energy landscape,” he said. Kenya has clearly taken this message to heart, having already completed the first phase of the IAEA’s Milestones Approach, which assesses a country’s readiness for nuclear power.
However, with reliance on concessional financing dwindling, new financial sources will be crucial. The sector, which traditionally focused on government securities, must now innovate to finance long-term private infrastructure projects.
One approach is collaboration with domestic financial institutions, while another is de-risking projects through public and development finance. This shift could unlock billions in untapped investment, channeling much-needed funds into the sector.
Beyond the financing challenge, the current skills gap must be addressed as well. A robust nuclear sector requires specialized expertise, and investment in education and training programs is crucial to build a capable workforce.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) could further support this effort by enabling cross-border collaboration in skills development. As young professionals gain access to training opportunities across the continent, Kenya stands to benefit from a growing pool of nuclear experts.
While challenges persist—including high costs, regulatory complexities, and public skepticism—the current proactive approach suggests strong determination to overcome these hurdles. The summit highlighted the importance of regional cooperation and creative financing in making nuclear energy viable.
