Influence Of Policy Makers On The Enactment Of Nuclear Energy Laws In Kenya

ABSTRACT

Despite extensive and continued use for nuclear science and technology for various applications, very little has been done to establish a legal and regulatory framework that ensures the safe and secure utilization of nuclear technology and science in Kenya. Attempts at enacting nuclear policy laws have largely been futile and painstakingly slow. This project examines whether attitudes, practices and knowledge of policy makers play any role in the enactment of nuclear energy laws in Kenya. It commences with a comprehensive assessment of the variables which was done aided by both a theoretical and a conceptual framework of the variables entailed in the study. The empirical study of Kenya’s energy needs that led to the pursuit of nuclear energy is covered followed by the theoretical framework that utilizes the Behavioral Reasoning Theory, Value-Belief-Norm-Theory and the Social Theory and energy policy. The researcher adopted a descriptive research design and used a combination of primary and secondary data sources in order to meet the objectives of this project. Primary data was collected through interviews and questionnaires, whilst secondary data was collected through a literature review that entails extensive and rigorous desktop research. The data collected was analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods. The quantitative data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) from which a reliability coefficient is generated. The qualitative data is analyzed using content analysis method that aided the researcher to arrive at his conclusions. The target population for this study targeted 200 individuals that are directly involved in Nuclear energy Policy implementation in Kenya from the Legislature represented by the House Committees for energy (in both houses) to the officers working in the Kenya Nuclear Electricity Board and the Radiation Protection Board. The sample population was selected based on the managerial position since these individuals in this cadre were deemed to have an overview of the nuclear policy implementation progress in the country. The study established that indeed Knowledge, attitudes, and practices do have an influence on the enactment of nuclear energy laws in Kenya. The study recommended that there be increased knowledge dissemination to counter the knowledge deficit, negative attitudes and inform practices that will lead to successful enactment of nuclear energy laws in Kenya.