Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has publicly endorsed the Kenyan government's ambitious proposal to establish a nuclear power plant, describing it as a monumental game-changer for the nation's energy security, industrialization, and sustainable growth. This significant backing was highlighted during a nuclear stakeholder engagement in Bondo, Siaya county, where Odinga urged residents and leaders to seek clarity and work collaboratively with government experts to address any concerns regarding the project.

The proposed site for this groundbreaking project is Luanda Kotieno in Siaya, within the broader Lake Victoria Region, which has been identified for its unique strategic advantages. Odinga emphasized the critical importance of ensuring maximum attention to the safety and security of the people, property, and the environment. He stressed that the program must strictly adhere to global standards in every aspect, from construction to eventual decommissioning, and meet all international requirements and best practices. He called for genuine and detailed engagement with the community, leaders, and all stakeholders to ensure all concerns are raised and adequately addressed.

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi echoed Odinga's sentiments, affirming that the successful implementation of the nuclear power program is poised to deliver numerous benefits across various sectors of Kenya’s economy. CS Wandayi reassured leaders and the community that their safety, well-being, and environmental protection are the Ministry’s paramount priorities. He stated that the Ministry, in close collaboration with the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) and the independent regulator, the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority (KNRA), is fully committed to maintaining transparency and fostering open dialogue throughout the entire process.

Beyond providing clean, affordable, and reliable power to the national grid, the nuclear power plant is expected to unlock unprecedented opportunities for local job creation, spanning from the construction phase to long-term operations. It is also anticipated to stimulate local businesses, attract new investments, enhance existing infrastructure, and foster significant skills development, particularly for the youth. The CS highlighted that Kenya has already undertaken key preparatory steps, including forging partnerships and collaborations with nuclear operating countries and expert organizations, and initiating training for Kenyans in nuclear-related courses both locally and internationally.

Concerns regarding safety and the need for clarity, initially voiced by Raila Odinga, were shared by other prominent leaders present, including Senator Oburu Oginga, Speaker George Okode, and Members of Parliament David Ochieng (Ugenya), Gideon Ochanda (Bondo), Christine Ombaka (Siaya), and Otiende Amollo (Rarieda). While broadly welcoming the proposal, these leaders collectively urged the Ministry of Energy and the Nuclear agency to provide comprehensive technical information about the project's importance to the community. Speaker Okode, conveying Governor James Orengo's message, affirmed the county government's commitment to and support for the nuclear power plant plans.

MP Ochanda underscored the necessity of educating the community on the positive impacts the power plant would bring, suggesting the use of examples from countries within and outside Africa that already host nuclear facilities. MP Otiende Amollo, whose Rarieda constituency includes Luanda Kotieno, the proposed host site, requested that residents from his area benefit from scholarships and educational opportunities related to the project, emphasizing direct community benefits.