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Nuclear power is expanding in Africa, and the IAEA is supporting countries in the development of the necessary infrastructure for safe and secure nuclear energy The government of Kenya hosted the first series of the Small Modular Reactor (SMR) training, known as an SMR School, in Nairobi last week. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) launched the initiative, which aims to educate governments, regulators and industry participants around the world about small modular reactors and their potential role in the global energy mix. The SMR School which took part in Nairobi focused on African countries, with 28 participants, including officials, policymakers and managers of organisations implementing nuclear programmes in Kenya, Ghana, Niger, Nigeria, Uganda and Zambia. Acting CEO of the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) of Kenya, Serah Esendi said as an embarking country, Kenya recognises the critical role of SMRs in “bridging gaps in clean and affordable energy access, supporting industrial growth, and complementing our renewable ambitions. “This school serves as a catalyst, equipping our technical teams, regulators, and future leaders with the expertise required to navigate the complexities of nuclear technology deployment responsibly and efficiently.” Nuclear energy expanding in Africa The IAEA states that nuclear power is expanding in Africa, and the IAEA is supporting countries in the development of the necessary infrastructure for safe and secure nuclear energy. “Egypt is building its first plant, comprised of four large reactors, and South Africa is planning to expand Africa’s only existing nuclear power programme. Many more African countries are exploring SMRs in their energy mix,” they said. The agency said the inaugural SMR School was the first event for high-level officials covering key aspects of small modulator reactors, including technology development and demonstration, legal frameworks, stakeholder engagement, and safety, security and safeguards. |
