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The Zambian government has reaffirmed it’s commitment to developing a nuclear power programme in line with the International Atomic Energy Agency ( IAEA) as it implements the first phase of Milestones Approach.
Ministry of Technology and Science, Permanent Secretary, Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu, emphasized that establishing a successful nuclear programme required robust legal and regulatory frameworks, strong institutions, skilled human resources, reliable infrastructure, sustainable financing, and public confidence.
Habeenzu said this in a speech read on his behalf by Ministry Director Planning and Information, Derick Saboi, during the Pre-Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR), incorporating the Self Evaluation report (SER) Support Mission and the Pre-INIR Mission, meeting in Livingstone.
The Ministry in collaboration with the Radiation Protection Authority (RPA), the IAEA, and the Nuclear Energy Programme Implementing Organization (NEPIO) is holding Pre-Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) merting, incorporating the Self Evaluation report (SER) Support Mission and the Pre-INIR Mission.
The mission forms part of Zambia’s continued commitment to developing a safe, secure, and internationally compliant nuclear programme that supports national development while adhering to IAEA safety standards
He noted that Zambia’s pursuit of nuclear energy is driven by the need to diversify the national energy mix and strengthen energy security while maintaining the highest standards of nuclear safety, security and safeguards.
“Government remains committed to strengthening legislation, enhancing institutional coordination, investing in local expertise and ensuring transparent stakeholder engagement,” Habeenzu said.
IAEA Representative John Haddad commended the Government of Zambia for its strong commitment to developing the country’s nuclear infrastructure and recognized the importance placed on safety, security and safeguards.
He explained that Zambia was currently in Phase One of the IAEA Milestones Approach and that the mission was intended to strengthen the Self-Evaluation Report ahead of the Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review.
Haddad encouraged continued collaboration among all institutions, noting that a coordinated approach will position Zambia to realize the long-term economic, scientific and educational benefits of nuclear technology.
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RPA Board Chairperson Dr. Msafiri Sinkala, described the mission as a critical assessment of Zambia’s preparedness for a nuclear power programme.
“The credibility of the Self-Evaluation Report depends on evidence-based contributions from all participating institutions,” Sinkala said.
He reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to regulatory independence, technical competence and adequate resourcing of the Radiation Protection Authority, while urging stakeholders to engage openly with the IAEA review process and implement recommendations arising from the mission.
The three-day mission has brought together national stakeholders, technical experts, and representatives from the IAEA to review Zambia’s preparedness for the development of nuclear infrastructure.
Discussions are focused on strengthening institutional capacity, regulatory frameworks, safety, security, human resource development, and strategic planning required for the peaceful application of nuclear science and technology.
The review is also providing an opportunity for Zambia to assess progress made under the country’s Nuclear Power Programme and receive expert recommendations from the IAEA on areas requiring further enhancement.
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