Positive IAEA assessment advances the country’s Nuclear Power Programme to its next phase.
Zambia has achieved a significant milestone in its pursuit of nuclear energy development following the successful completion of a critical stage in the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) nuclear infrastructure development assessment process.
The achievement follows an intensive 10-day Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) Mission conducted by a team of international experts from the IAEA. The mission assessed Zambia’s progress in developing the national infrastructure required for a nuclear power programme and delivered a positive assessment, accompanied by a limited number of recommendations to guide the country’s next steps.
The mission’s findings were officially received on behalf of the Government of the Republic of Zambia by the Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix Mutati.
The successful completion of this assessment reflects the leadership and coordination of Dr. Larry Mweetwa, working in collaboration with a dedicated, multidisciplinary team of national experts. Their efforts, together with the contribution of participating institutions, have supported the advancement of the programme through sustained technical coordination, institutional collaboration and a shared commitment to its objectives.
Initiated in 2015, Zambia’s Nuclear Power Programme has progressed from a national policy commitment towards the practical development of the infrastructure needed to support the programme. Reaching this stage of the IAEA review process is an important step in that journey and places Zambia among a select group of African countries that have progressed through this critical phase of nuclear infrastructure development.
The positive review provides a basis for Zambia to proceed to the next phase of nuclear infrastructure development. This will require substantial work, including detailed feasibility studies, site assessments, regulatory preparations, financing arrangements and the development of the skilled human resources needed to support the programme.
The milestone demonstrates the country’s growing technical and institutional capacity to pursue nuclear energy as part of its long-term strategy for strengthening energy security, supporting industrialisation and promoting sustainable economic development. Continued coordination among national institutions and sustained technical preparation will be important as Zambia undertakes the work required in the next phase.
Congratulations to Dr. Larry Mweetwa, the entire National Nuclear Power Programme team, the participating institutions and the Government of the Republic of Zambia on this important national achievement.
“Great achievements are not accomplished by individuals alone, but through a shared vision, collective determination and unwavering commitment to excellence.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Technology and Science, Republic of Zambia.
