Unlocking Africa's Nuclear Potential: Challenges and Collaborative Solutions
The recent Africa Nuclear Business Platform Lite 2023 featured a panel discussion that delved into critical aspects of Africa's burgeoning nuclear energy sector, the existing challenges, the prospects of regional cooperation, and more. Led by Mr. Van Zyl de Villiers, Senior Consultant of the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE), the discussion shed light on the continent's nuclear journey.
In the case of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Dr. Steve Muanza, Commissaire Général of the Commissariat Général à L'Energie Atomique (CGEA), shared insights into the nation's aspirations. DRC is actively seeking to reactivate its research reactor, a significant step toward harnessing nuclear knowledge. However, accessibility to funds for nuclear studies faces hurdles due to political factors. Presently, the country primarily focuses on renewable energy sources such as hydropower. Nonetheless, there is a possibility of exploring Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in the future, particularly in the eastern and southeastern regions.
Likewise, Mozambique stands at a crossroads in its energy journey. According to Dr. Moniz Zuca, from the Director of Licensing Service at National Atomic Energy Agency of Mozambique, the country has yet to develop nuclear power plants, despite receiving numerous proposals from international companies. The absence of a well-defined regulatory framework for nuclear power plants poses a significant challenge. While hydropower and solar power serve as the main sources of electricity, they may prove insufficient to meet future energy demands. Hence, nuclear energy emerges as a logical solution. Dr. Zuca emphasized the critical role of human resource development and practical training in the nuclear field. Addressing misconceptions about nuclear energy within both the public and government is equally essential.
The evolving landscape of nuclear regulatory infrastructure in Africa reflects continuous progress. While certain regulatory aspects may pose challenges between regulatory bodies and nuclear power plant operators, laws are consistently refined and improved.
Mr. Justus Wabuyabo, Acting CEO of Kenya’s Nuclear Power & Energy Agency (NuPEA), highlighted the importance of enhancing Kenya's nuclear regulatory system. The nation drew lessons from countries such as the United States, South Korea, and France, leveraging their experiences to build a robust regulatory framework.
When it comes to advanced nuclear technologies, particularly Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), it holds promise in reducing the economic burden on nations. Their ease of construction and scalability align well with Africa's development aspirations. And by the improvement of the nation’s economy, it can be gradually scaled-up
Regional grid formation and power pooling present opportunities for enhanced energy security and collaboration. Mr. Katse Maphoto, Chief Director of Nuclear Safety and Technology at the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy of South Africa, emphasized the need for regional cooperation in deploying nuclear power as a base load source. For SMR deployment, localized microgrids become pertinent, requiring strategic investments in grid infrastructure. A multilateral and collaborative approach can facilitate the development of regional grids, which can also integrate renewable sources.
In closing, Mr. Enobot Agboraw, Executive Secretary of AFCONE, acknowledged the political and socio-economic challenges that often hinder regional cooperation in Africa. AFCONE remains committed to overcoming these barriers and offers guidance and assistance to countries developing regulatory frameworks. The organization strives to raise awareness about nuclear energy in Africa and advises the African Union on related matters. AFCONE firmly believes that a multilateral approach can foster regional collaboration and address the challenges impeding the growth of nuclear energy in Africa.
