Hours after concluding his trip to Germany, where he accompanied President William Ruto on an official visit, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi flew to Austria for a new engagement. On Sunday, September 15, 2024, Mudavadi confirmed his arrival in Vienna, where he was received by Austrian government officials.
Mudavadi’s four-day visit will focus on the 68th Regular Session of the General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), taking place from September 16 to 20, 2024.
In his statement, Mudavadi highlighted Kenya’s commitment to advancing its interests in nuclear science and technology. He emphasized Kenya’s support for the peaceful applications of nuclear technology for sustainable development, while also prioritizing nuclear safety, security, and global non-proliferation efforts.
“Kenya remains steadfast in supporting the agency’s statutory objectives of promoting access to peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology for sustainable development,” Mudavadi stated, further noting that Kenya has been an IAEA member since 1965 and is currently serving on its Board of Governors for the 2022-2024 period.
Arrived in Vienna, Austria, to attend the 68th Regular Session of the General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), taking place from September 16th to 20th.
I will use the opportunity to notify the delegates that Kenya remains steadfast in supporting the… pic.twitter.com/9L54xwFqY6
— Musalia W Mudavadi (@MusaliaMudavadi) September 15, 2024
Mudavadi’s trip comes amid controversy over a proposed nuclear plant in Uyombo, Matsangoni, Kilifi County. Local residents, led by community chairman Anthony Kingi, are strongly opposed to the project, citing inadequate public participation and concerns about its environmental impact.
“We oppose the project because proper public participation was not conducted,” Kingi said, adding that the area’s rich ecosystem, including Arabuko Sokoke Forest and Watamu Marine Park, provides livelihoods through tourism.
While the project has not yet commenced due to this opposition, Mudavadi’s participation in the IAEA conference is expected to raise awareness of nuclear technology’s potential benefits for Kenya.
