Thirteen youths were arrested during overnight security operations in Lenya Kajohn Village, Central Sakwa, Siaya County, following protests against a proposed nuclear power plant, according to local activists.
Residents opposed to the project allege that heavily armed police and security personnel raided the village and used force to disperse demonstrators. Activists are calling for the immediate release of those arrested and have appealed for national and international solidarity.
The proposed nuclear power project has become a source of growing tension in parts of Siaya County, where some residents have raised concerns over potential environmental and public health risks. Protesters argue that any release of radioactive materials could have long-term consequences for Lake Victoria, a vital freshwater resource shared by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, with waters flowing into the Nile River system that supports millions of people across East and North Africa.
Environmental groups and community leaders are demanding greater transparency, comprehensive environmental impact assessments, and broader public participation before the project proceeds.
Kenyan authorities have previously stated that any future nuclear energy development would comply with international safety standards and be subject to strict regulatory oversight and environmental safeguards. However, officials had not immediately commented on the reported arrests or the allegations surrounding the security operation.
The incident comes as Kenya continues to explore nuclear energy as part of its long-term strategy to diversify electricity generation and meet growing energy demand, a move that has drawn both support and opposition from communities, environmental advocates, and energy experts.
