Kwale residents join Kilifi in opposing nuclear power plant project

Kwale residents have added their voices to growing opposition against the proposed nuclear power plant (NPP) project in the Coast region, joining their Kilifi counterparts in raising concerns over the potential dangers and lack of transparency surrounding the initiative.

The protests, which have seen increased participation from local activists and concerned citizens, are focused on urging the government to reconsider the decision to site the plant in the coastal areas.

The proposed project, which is part of the country’s ambitious energy plan, is feared to have disastrous consequences for the local communities and the environment.

Speaking during a sensitisation forum on the impacts of the nuclear plant held at Kombani Social Hall in Matuga sub-County, Fakii Omar, Programme Manager for Grassroots Voices, emphasized that both Kilifi and Kwale counties were identified as potential sites for the plant by the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) in its Strategic Environmental and Social Assessment Report (SESA).

"Kilifi residents have already rejected the project, and we are warning the government not to consider Kwale as a site for the nuclear plant," said Mr Omar.

Adding that the project has raised many concerns regarding its transparency and potential risks.

Mr Omar highlighted that despite the potential benefits of increased energy supply, there are significant risks that have not been adequately addressed, especially in terms of public awareness and safety management.

He also raised concerns over the long-term impact the plant could have on the health and livelihoods of the people living in the area.

"We have heard the devastating effects such projects have had on communities in other parts of the world, and we do not want to suffer the same fate," he added.

The proposed NPP is expected to generate 1,000 megawatts of electricity by 2034, with a budget of Sh500 billion, aimed at meeting Kenya’s growing energy needs and supporting industrial growth.

However, experts and local activists warn that such a project poses serious risks, both to public health and the environment.

Mr Omar stressed the importance of transparency and public engagement in the decision-making process. 

"The government has not done enough to inform the public about the real risks involved," he said, adding that the absence of a clear plan for waste management and safety procedures raises serious doubts about the project's feasibility.

There are also concerns about uranium, the primary fuel used in nuclear reactors, which is known to be highly toxic.

Experts warn that accidents involving the release of radioactive materials could lead to severe environmental contamination, affecting both the ecosystem and human health.

"The health risks, including cancer and genetic mutations, are well-documented in countries that have had similar projects. We do not want Kwale and Kilifi to face the same dangers," he said.

Senior Village Chairman of Kombani Mohammed Mwamkoba echoed these concerns, stating that the project could lead to the displacement of people and disruption of local livelihoods.

He called on the government to prioritize the well being of its people over the potential financial gains from the project.

"We do not want to risk the health of our current and future generations due to the greed of a few individuals," Mr Mwamkoba said.

Adding that the project could displace many people from their homes and livelihoods, and it would be a tragedy for the community.

Mr Mwamkoba urged the government to consider the long-term impact of the project on local communities.

"Agreeing to this project will not only affect us, but also our entire bloodline, which we are not prepared to sacrifice," he added.

Earlier in the year local leaders in Kilifi also expressed their opposition to the proposed nuclear power plant at Uyombo village in Matsangoni.

Kilifi County Governor Gideon Mung'aro has been vocal about the risks posed by the project, including environmental degradation and the potential health hazards for the local population.

Experts also weighed in on the risks of establishing a nuclear power plant in the coastal region.

Environmental scientists have expressed concern about the long-term ecological impact, particularly in a region that relies heavily on agriculture and fishing for livelihoods.

They have warned that the potential for radioactive contamination could harm local ecosystems for generations. Additionally, the socio-economic consequences of such a project could be devastating.

Displacement, loss of livelihoods, and damage to the region's tourism industry, which is a major economic driver, could all result from the construction of the plant.