HOMA BAY WELCOMES NUCLEAR ENERGY PROGRAMME BY NuPEA
Deputy Governor H.E Hamilton Orata received a delegation from the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) who held a validation workshop, Wednesday on the Strategic Environmental and Social Social Assessment (SESA) report for Kenya’s nuclear programme.
Speaking during the public hearing at Homa Bay Tourist hotel, the Deputy Governor underscored the importance of having the nuclear power programme as it positively impacts on development.
“Nuclear energy is the way to go and we embrace it because we have uranium deposits and the lake as key resources,” He said adding that, the forum was necessary for engaging youth in public participation as their views are taken to ensure confidence and safety of the programme.
NuPEA Chairman, Dr. Ezra Odhiambo said the nuclear programmes’ key benefit is that it will reduce the cost of electricity in this country, thereby prompting industrial development and stimulating economic growth.
He assured the public of the safety and protection of people, property and environment from harmful effects of exposure to radiation, emphasising the importance of conducting public participation to validate the SESA report.
County executive for Environment Hon. Dickson Nyawinda welcomed the nuclear programme, terming it a viable option to the high costs of hydro-electric power consumption in the distribution of water within the county.
“We are about to open a door to a new, efficient energy option. Let us seriously look at the document and give our input during this public hearing as it is beneficial to not only Homa Bay but the whole county.” He said.
By the end of the public hearings most fears were allayed by experts from NuPEA who had conducted a 3-year research that culminated into the validation document brought to the public in this forum.
In attendance at the workshop were Board of directors, Management & Secretariat from NuPEA, officials from the county government of Homa Bay, Stakeholders from NEMA among other guests.