US supports Kenya and El Salvador in peaceful nuclear power development

The Biden administration has taken significant steps to assist Kenya and El Salvador in developing peaceful nuclear power. During the annual International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) conference in Vienna, the U.S. signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Kenya, aimed at fostering safe nuclear technology. Kenya's Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi, highlighted the country's urgent need for nuclear power to address its energy shortfall, as current renewable sources are insufficient. The first nuclear plant in Kenya is projected to be operational by 2034, pending resolution of environmental concerns. El Salvador is also pursuing nuclear energy, having initiated its plans in 2023 to diversify its energy sources, which currently rely heavily on hydro and geothermal power. The Salvadoran government has partnered with the Thorium Alliance to explore thorium-based nuclear power, which offers easier fuel procurement compared to traditional uranium. In March 2024, discussions with the IAEA focused on nuclear legislation and international obligations, marking a pivotal moment for El Salvador's energy strategy. Both nations view nuclear energy as a crucial component of their energy transition and economic development. U.S. officials, including Deputy Secretary of Energy David Turk, emphasized the importance of nuclear power in reducing carbon emissions while meeting growing energy demands. The U.S. commitment to supporting these countries reflects a broader strategy to promote the peaceful use of nuclear technology globally. The developments in Kenya and El Salvador underscore a significant shift towards nuclear energy in regions traditionally reliant on renewable sources, highlighting the potential for nuclear power to play a vital role in future energy security and environmental sustainability.