Uganda’s 8,400 MW Nuclear Dream Takes Flight with South Korea’s KHNP

Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) has officially entered the Ugandan nuclear energy landscape with the signing of a pivotal contract with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD) of Uganda. The agreement, signed in Entebbe on May 27, 2025, launches a 26-month site evaluation project to assess the suitability of the Buyende region—earmarked to host Uganda’s first-ever nuclear power plant generating up to 8,400 MW. This marks a major step forward for Uganda’s "Vision 2040" and its plan to deploy six pressurized water reactors by 2040.

The project will be carried out in full alignment with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards and will include detailed assessments of natural hazards, cooling water availability, and even external risks like aircraft impacts. Notably, at least 30% of the work will be subcontracted to Ugandan companies, ensuring strong local participation.

Beyond engineering, KHNP will provide vital capacity-building and training for MEMD staff and local firms, ensuring knowledge transfer and the development of Uganda’s nuclear workforce and industry.

Minister of Energy Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa emphasized Uganda’s serious commitment: “The studies began in 2016, and land acquisition is already underway… This contract allows KHNP to begin detailed site work in Buyende.” She also confirmed a resettlement action plan is currently being prepared, as 30 square kilometers of land are being acquired.

KHNP Vice President Seungyeol Lim expressed the company’s strong support: “KHNP will actively cooperate to ensure the successful realization of Uganda’s ambitious vision to build 24 gigawatts of nuclear power.”

This landmark deal is not just a win for KHNP, which will lead the project alongside Dohwa Engineering and KEPCO E&C, but also a success story for Nuclear Business Platform. The roots of this collaboration were planted at Africa Nuclear Business Platform (AFNBP) 2023 in Uganda, where KHNP and MEMD signed a Memorandum of Understanding on March 14, 2023—laying the foundation for today's contract. The MOU focused on fostering nuclear cooperation between the two parties, specifically aiming to support Uganda’s nuclear ambitions through collaboration in the design, construction, and operation of nuclear power plants. It also included provisions for nuclear human resources development, ensuring knowledge transfer to build Uganda’s capacity in the nuclear sector. The MOU in 2023 laid the groundwork for the site evaluation agreement.

This announcement underscores the critical role of NBP in catalyzing real partnerships and nuclear progress across the continent. Uganda’s nuclear journey is well underway—and it started on the Africa Nuclear Business Platform.

MOU signed in 2023 during AFNBP

Uganda’s pursuit of nuclear energy comes at a critical juncture as the country seeks to address its growing energy demands while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. With a population of over 47 million and a GDP growth rate of 5.2% in 2024 (World Bank), Uganda faces an electricity access gap, with only 60% of its population connected to the grid, according to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics. The country’s current installed capacity is around 1,400 MW, predominantly from hydropower, which is vulnerable to climate variability. The Buyende nuclear project, with its 8,400 MW target, could increase Uganda’s capacity sixfold, providing a stable baseload to support industrialization and economic growth under Vision 2040. By integrating nuclear power, Uganda aims to diversify its energy mix, enhance energy security, and contribute to its climate goals, aligning with global trends toward low-carbon energy solutions.

The implications of Uganda’s nuclear ambitions extend beyond its borders, positioning it as a pioneer in East Africa’s energy transition. Neighboring countries like Kenya, which is exploring nuclear power with a 1,000 MW plant by 2035, and Tanzania, assessing sites for a potential 600 MW reactor, are watching closely. Uganda’s progress could catalyze a regional nuclear renaissance, fostering knowledge sharing and collaboration through platforms like AFNBP. Moreover, the project’s focus on local participation—30% of the work subcontracted to Ugandan firms—sets a model for inclusive development, ensuring economic benefits reach local communities. This regional momentum underscores the importance of international partnerships, as seen with KHNP, in advancing Africa’s sustainable energy future.

KHNP’s involvement in Uganda further solidifies its position as a global leader in nuclear exports, building on its successes like the $20 billion Barakah project in the UAE. With South Korea aiming to export 10 reactors by 2030, KHNP’s expertise in pressurized water reactors and commitment to capacity building make it a strategic partner for emerging nuclear markets like Uganda. This contract also reflects the growing influence of South Korean technology in Africa, supported by initiatives like the January 2025 U.S.-South Korea MOU on nuclear exports. As Uganda progresses toward its 2040 nuclear goals, KHNP’s role will likely expand, potentially including reactor construction and long-term operational support, further strengthening bilateral ties between South Korea and Uganda.