NAIROBI, Kenya- The United States has joined African leaders and international partners in Nairobi for the 2026 International Conference on Nuclear Energy (ICoNE), highlighting growing cooperation on the safe and responsible use of nuclear technology.
The conference brought together government officials, regulators, and industry stakeholders from across Africa and beyond to explore opportunities in the continent’s emerging nuclear energy sector.
Focus on Safe and Responsible Nuclear Growth
The event was jointly supported by the U.S. Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor (SMR) Technology (FIRST) programme, alongside Kenya’s Nuclear Power and Energy Agency and the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency.
The U.S. delegation was led by Ryan Taugher, Director of the Department of State’s Office of Cooperative Threat Reduction, who underscored Washington’s commitment to advancing nuclear energy under strict global safety and non-proliferation standards.
“ICoNE provides an important forum for strengthening partnerships and advancing responsible nuclear energy programmes,” he said, adding that the U.S. will continue working with partners to ensure technologies meet the highest safety and security benchmarks.
Strengthening Regional Partnerships
Officials from several African countries — including Ghana, Nigeria, Namibia and Rwanda- participated in the discussions, alongside key international organisations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Talks focused on expanding civil nuclear cooperation, improving regulatory frameworks and creating favourable conditions for investment in advanced nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs).
On the sidelines of the conference, the U.S. delegation held bilateral meetings with regional partners to explore pathways for future agreements and strengthen commercial and technical collaboration.
Kenya at the Centre of Nuclear Ambitions
Kenya’s role in the conference reflects its growing ambition to develop nuclear energy as part of its long-term energy strategy.
The country was the first in Africa to join the U.S. FIRST programme and has since deepened cooperation with Washington.
In 2022, Kenya and the United States signed a Nuclear Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding, laying the foundation for expanded collaboration in the sector.
Officials say the partnership aims to support Kenya’s energy security goals, diversify power sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Expanding Opportunities in Emerging Markets
The conference also forms part of broader U.S. efforts to expand opportunities for its nuclear industry while promoting high safety and regulatory standards in emerging markets.
Participants discussed how nuclear energy could help meet rising electricity demand across Africa while supporting climate goals through low-carbon power generation.
As interest in nuclear energy grows across the continent, stakeholders emphasised the importance of strong governance, safety frameworks and international cooperation.
The United States reaffirmed its commitment to working with partners to promote the responsible use of nuclear energy, strengthen global non-proliferation norms and support economic development through reliable and sustainable energy solutions.
