IAEA Completes First IPPAS Mission in Kenya to Strengthen Nuclear Security

Kenya relies on radioactive materials across a wide range of essential sectors, including medicine, industry, agriculture, and research.

Kenya has taken a major step toward strengthening its nuclear security framework with the successful completion of its first International Physical Protection Advisory Service (IPPAS) mission conducted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The mission, held from 10 to 21 November and hosted by the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority (KNRA), represents a milestone as the country prepares for expanded use of nuclear science and technology, including the development of its first nuclear research reactor and potential future nuclear power generation.

Strengthening Security Across Kenya’s Expanding Nuclear Landscape

Kenya relies on radioactive materials across a wide range of essential sectors, including medicine, industry, agriculture, and research. With plans to expand into nuclear energy and research, reinforcing nuclear security has become a national priority. The IPPAS mission provides a rigorous international review of the country’s physical protection systems, regulatory preparedness, and inter-agency coordination.

Over the course of the two-week review, the six-member international expert team assessed how Kenya manages and secures radioactive materials at various facilities. They visited eight key sites, including:

• Central Radioactive Waste Processing Facility

• Quality Assurance Systems

• Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS)

• International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)

• Kenyatta National Hospital

• Nairobi Hospital

• Aga Khan University Hospital, a leading brachytherapy treatment centre

• Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO)

These facilities reflect the diverse and growing use of nuclear-related technologies in Kenya—from cancer therapy and diagnostic imaging to food security research and agricultural innovation.

Kenya’s Commitments to International Nuclear Security Standards

Kenya is a party to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (CPPNM) and its Amendment, the world’s only legally binding international instrument on nuclear security. The country has also pledged political support for the IAEA Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources, reinforcing its commitment to global norms.

The IPPAS team, led by Moustapha Tall, Director of Inspection at Senegal’s Radiation Protection, Nuclear Safety and Security Authority, brought together experts from Ghana, Spain, Türkiye, the United States, and the IAEA. Their work included extensive consultations with representatives from:

• Ministry of Interior

• Kenya Police Service

• Directorate of Criminal Investigation

• Department of Defence

• National Counter Terrorism Centre

• Kenya Airports Authority

• Kenya Civil Aviation Authority

This engagement reflects the multi-agency approach required to secure nuclear and radioactive materials in a modern, high-threat environment.

Key Findings: Progress Made, Next Steps Needed

The expert team acknowledged Kenya’s progress in developing draft regulations aimed at strengthening the security of nuclear and radioactive materials but encouraged the government to expedite their adoption. They also recommended:

• Formalizing cooperation among agencies responsible for nuclear security

• Increasing human, financial, and technical resources for KNRA

• Enhancing coordination between regulators, law enforcement, and emergency responders

• Ensuring readiness as Kenya advances toward its first nuclear research reactor and a potential nuclear power programme

The team noted several good practices that could serve as models for other IAEA Member States, showcasing Kenya’s growing role in advancing regional nuclear security standards.

International and National Leaders Highlight Importance of the Mission

“The first IPPAS mission in Kenya provided recommendations and suggestions to help the country further enhance its nuclear security procedures and practices,” said Elena Buglova, Director of the IAEA Division of Nuclear Security. “The findings highlight the importance of a robust regulatory framework supported by effective coordination and resources.”

James Keter, Director General of KNRA, emphasized the mission’s importance for national safety and energy development.

“The IPPAS mission is a key step in Kenya’s efforts to enhance nuclear security,” he said. “The recommendations will help us build a stronger framework to ensure nuclear and radioactive materials do not fall into the hands of criminal or terrorist groups. This will protect the public and the environment from associated risks.”

Preparing for Kenya’s Nuclear Future

As Kenya moves toward establishing its first nuclear research reactor and explores nuclear energy to meet growing electricity needs, strengthening nuclear security becomes essential. The IPPAS mission sets the foundation for future development built on international best practices.

The mission underscores Kenya’s commitment to safe, secure, and peaceful uses of nuclear technology—a commitment that will shape the country’s scientific, agricultural, medical, and energy landscape for decades to come.