In recent years, African nations have been increasingly looking towards nuclear energy as a viable solution to meet their growing energy demands and drive sustainable development. With a focus on reducing carbon emissions and ensuring energy security, several countries on the continent are considering or actively pursuing nuclear power projects.
Most African countries currently lack access to reliable and affordable electricity. In 2021, around 600 million Africans, or 43% of the population, lacked access to electricity, according to the International Energy Agency.
Some African countries have made significant strides in developing nuclear energy infrastructure. South Africa, for instance, operates the continent’s only commercial nuclear power plant at Koeberg, providing a substantial portion of the country’s electricity needs.
However, many African countries still face challenges in embracing nuclear energy, such as high initial costs, concerns about safety and security, as well as the lack of technical expertise and regulatory frameworks.
Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of nuclear power in Africa are undeniable. By investing in nuclear energy, countries can diversify their energy mix, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, create job opportunities in high-skilled sectors, and bolster their overall economic development.
Beyond electricity generation, nuclear technology also has applications in fields like medical diagnostics and treatment, as well as industrial uses such as sterilization and food preservation.
The African Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development and Training related to Nuclear Science and Technology (AFRA) is playing a crucial role in promoting the peaceful use of nuclear technology on the continent. AFRA is an intergovernmental agreement established by African member states to further strengthen and enlarge the contribution of nuclear science and technology to socio-economic development.
During the recent 35th AFRA Technical Working Group Meeting in Addis Ababa, participants from different African countries discussed various issues related to nuclear science and technology. Ethiopia, for instance, is investigating the possibilities of nuclear power for energy generation and plans to establish an institute to administer the sector sustainably.
In his introductory remarks, Innovation and Technology Minister Belete Molla (PhD) stated that Ethiopia is investigating the possibilities of nuclear power for energy generation and intends to establish an institute to administer the sector sustainably.
“We are investing in research and development, building the required infrastructure, and implementing policies and initiatives to promote innovative businesses and entrepreneurs across all industries. As a result, the Ministry of Innovation and Technology is committed to promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy in order to build a strong and long-term nuclear program.”
The Minister further stated that the AFRA technical working group conference aims to improve technical collaboration between state parties and the Intentional Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). In compliance with the regulations governing the provision of technical assistance to its member states, the IAEA provides technical, financial, and administrative support.
Ethiopia has been a member of AFRA since its inception in 1990, and has since collaborated in key economic sectors such as agriculture, food security, human health, water resource management, the environment, industry, and, more recently, research through human resource development, equipment procurement, and donations, Belete stated.
Hua Liu, IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Technical Cooperation on his part emphasized the significance of AFRA as a pivotal regional framework for advancing nuclear science and technology. The collaboration between AFRA and the IAEA has yielded tangible outcomes that must be sustained through collective efforts. Liu urged AFRA to assess the economic impacts of its programs, particularly in addressing water scarcity affecting one-third of the region’s population.
Acknowledging the pressing challenges faced by AFRA, Liu introduced a new initiative aimed at enhancing agricultural production, reducing food losses, ensuring food safety, and improving nutritional outcomes. He stressed the importance of adapting agriculture to climate change adversities. The development of small modular reactors (SMRs) was highlighted as a promising opportunity for Africa’s energy sector due to their safety and convenience in construction and operation.
Liu underscored the necessity of human resource development in nuclear science and technology through training programs supported by the IAEA. He advocated for establishing regional training centres to enhance nuclear safety capabilities across Africa. Encouraging South-South cooperation and innovative funding approaches beyond traditional donors, Liu emphasized the need for African nations to collaborate on common interests like public health to attract private or developmental funding.
While noting progress in Africa’s nuclear sector, Liu acknowledged persistent challenges that require flexible responses and sustained momentum. He called upon all African IAEA member states to ratify the revised Africa Agreement and fulfil their financial commitments to support technical cooperation initiatives. In conclusion, Liu expressed gratitude for on-going support while urging continued dedication towards advancing nuclear science and technology in Africa.
In an exclusive interview with The Ethiopian Herald John Jabati, a represe-ntative from the regulatory authority in Sierra Leone highlighted the progress of nuclear science and technology in Africa, particularly in human health, agriculture, and nutrition
Despite advancements, challenges persist due to the novelty of these technologies on the continent. A key obstacle is the limited capacity in Africa, heavily reliant on foreign experts. To address this issue, there is a pressing need for human resource development within Africa.
Jabati emphasized the significance of promoting training in nuclear science and technology to meet Africa’s growing demands. He noted the potential benefits in various sectors such as human health and the emerging interest in nuclear power, particularly through small modular reactors. Many African nations are now considering nuclear power as a solution to their energy challenges, which could pave the way for achieving sustainable development goals.
According to Jabati, governmental commitment is crucial to kick-start progress in this field. Without strong support from African governments, advancements are hindered. He stressed the importance of building local capacity in nuclear science and technology as a fundamental step towards realizing these opportunities on the continent.
Nuclear technology plays a crucial role in enhancing animal health, soil and water management, insect pest control, food safety, and plant breeding. Its application in crop breeding can lead to the development of resilient varieties that can better withstand climate change impacts, aiding vulnerable nations in securing food and nutrition. In light of Africa’s susceptibility to climate-related challenges like droughts and floods, leveraging this technology is vital for the continent’s progress and the well-being of its people.
BY EYUEL KIFLU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024
