Kenya Coal Forum: Uncovering the Real Political, Health and Environmental Aspects Of The Project
Friday 14th July, 2017 | Laico Regency, Nairobi | 3.00 pm – 6.00 pm | Free Entry
The Government of Kenya in conjunction with a private partner has proposed to construct a 1,050 Megawatt coal-fired power plant in Kwasasi, Lamu County. Given the magnitude of the project, it is paramount that the potential benefits and pitfalls are clearly understood by the public. This will only happen when there is transparency on the project and robust public debate.
Having experienced power rationing in the year 2000 coupled with the high cost of electricity, energy security and affordability is an issue many Kenyans can relate to. There is no doubt that the State must provide affordable energy to its citizens whilst also seeking the most sustainable means of doing so.
The proposed coal plant is to be constructed in an area that has an incredibly rich environment and culture heritage. It has been argued that the project will foster development in the area but there has been no discussion on the true cost of this development especially in an already marginalized area. As citizens, we must consider the climate change implications bearing in mind the recent drought experienced in the country. Whilst China, India and the United Kingdom are closing coal plants, Kenya is pushing to build the first one in Eastern Africa.
Key discussion points:
- What impact will the plant have on the socio-economic aspects on the inhabitants of Lamu County?
- Why isn’t the government providing information on the public health impacts of the coal plant?
- Will the coal plant contribute to the climate change vulnerability of the country?
Invited Speakers:
- Hon. Shakila Abdalla – Lamu County Women’s Representative
- Prof. Nick King – Climate Change and Sustainable Development Expert; Co-Chair of the Scientific Advisory Panel for UNEP’s 6th Global Environmental Outlook (GEO-6) Report
- Prof. Peter Orris – Chief of Occupational and Environmental Medicine at the University of Illinois Hospital
- Raya Famau – Board Member, Save Lamu
- Hindpal Jabbal – Former Chairman, Energy Regulatory Commission
Facilitated by:
John-Allan Namu Find direction to the event
