Kenya is set to host a major summit on nuclear energy bringing together experts, policymakers, and industry leaders from across Africa in August this year.
The International Conference on Nuclear Energy (ICoNE) 2025, to be held in Mombasa aims to gather the key stakeholders to discuss the role of nuclear power in Africa, its role in addressing climate change, energy security challenges and sustainable economic development.
Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) CEO Justus Wabuyabo confirmed that the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) has officially accepted an invitation to co-organize the event.
In a statement, Wabuyabo said through the partnership, both NEA and NuPEA aim to advance their shared strategic goals and foster innovation in sustainable energy solutions.
“This collaboration aims to enhance the impact and reach of the conference, reinforcing its role in advancing nuclear energy discussions in Africa and beyond,” he said.
It aligns with NEA’s common journey initiative, which promotes knowledge-sharing and capacity-building in nuclear energy across Africa.
The conference, he added, will also provide a platform for sharing nuclear knowledge, expertise, best practices and lessons learned to enable newcomer countries enhance their capabilities and develop strategies for the successful implementation of nuclear power projects.
At least 1, 000 participants from African governments and ministries, international nuclear industry organisations, regulators, nuclear owners and operators, investors and development partners are expected to attend.
Apart from the main agenda which is nuclear, Wabuyabo added that the meeting set for August 26-28 will contribute significantly to the tourism and hospitality sector.
“It will not only benefit the sector but also highlight Mombasa as a premier destination fro globals events, increasing its visibility as a conference and tourist destination,” he said.
President William Ruto is set to officially open the event that will also include exhibitions, panel and plenary discussions.
The conference is being held at a time Kenya prepares to develop its first-ever nuclear plant in 2027 as an alternative source of energy.
By hosting the conference, Kenya hopes to position herself as a regional leader in energy innovation highlighting its proactive stance in addressing energy challenges while at the same time enhancing public awareness and acceptance of the nuclear programme.
“The conference will address misconceptions and misinformation on nuclear energy, promote awareness, and underscore the socio-economic benefits of nuclear power to to local stakeholders,” he stated.
NEA headquartered in Paris, France, is an intergovernmental agency that is operates under the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) framework.
It brings together 33 member states.
The Agency facilitates cooperation among countries with advanced nuclear technology infrastructures to seek excellence in nuclear safety, technology, science, environment and law.
Last year, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi hosted NEA’s Director General in Nairobi for bilateral discussions on how it can support Kenya in advancing its nuclear power programme with emphasis on clean, affordable, and reliable electricity for Kenya’s industrialisation.
Mudavadi pointed out that nuclear power will play a complementary role in Kenya’s energy mix moving forward.
Magwood IV pledged to enhance Kenya’s capacity in stakeholder engagement, especially among policymakers emphasizing the importance of repackaging nuclear financial architecture with international financial institutions and developing human resources focused on STEM.
