Climate change is a global crisis, prompting countries worldwide to seek alternatives to fossil fuels for sustainable energy production. One significant source of power generation is nuclear energy, which has emerged as a potential solution—albeit a controversial one. In Africa, where access to energy is limited and infrastructure often inadequate, the question of whether nuclear energy can play a pivotal role in the continent’s future is both urgent and complex.
Africa’s relationship with nuclear energy is rapidly evolving, with opportunities, challenges, and risks accompanying its integration into the continent’s energy mix. Currently, over 600 million people—nearly 60% of Africa’s population—lack access to electricity, despite the continent’s abundant renewable energy potential in solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal sources.
Africa continues to rely heavily on traditional biomass (such as wood and charcoal) and fossil fuels for energy. Meanwhile, energy demand is expected to rise significantly in the coming decades due to population growth, urbanisation, and industrialisation. This projected demand has led some African countries to explore nuclear energy for its capacity to deliver large-scale, continuous, low-carbon electricity.
South Africa is the only African country with an operational nuclear power station: the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station near Cape Town, which has been generating electricity since 1984. South Africa’s expertise in nuclear technology sets it apart as the leader in African nuclear energy. The country’s ambitious plans include expanding its nuclear capacity through additional reactors under its Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) 2019. As a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), South Africa has committed to non-proliferation agreements, ensuring that its nuclear programme remains peaceful and transparent.
Inspired by South Africa’s success, other African countries—such as Egypt, Nigeria, Kenya, and Ghana—have incorporated nuclear energy into their national strategies. Egypt is actively building its first nuclear power plant in El-Dabaa, in partnership with Russian state-owned nuclear company Rosatom. When operational, the plant will add 4.8 GW to Egypt’s energy grid, substantially increasing the country’s power supply.
Nigeria, meanwhile, is working with the IAEA to establish a nuclear regulatory framework and develop the infrastructure needed for its own nuclear power programme. Kenya and Ghana have also expressed interest in nuclear energy, though their initiatives remain in the early stages. Many view nuclear energy as a crucial component in diversifying Africa’s energy sources to alleviate power shortages and drive industrial growth.
Nuclear power, one of the most environmentally friendly energy sources, emits minimal greenhouse gases during operation, offering Africa a pathway to reducing carbon emissions and combatting global warming. Additionally, many African nations are highly reliant on energy imports, making them vulnerable to global market fluctuations and supply disruptions. By developing nuclear energy, these countries could achieve greater energy independence and stability.
A nuclear energy sector could also create a substantial number of skilled jobs in engineering, construction, operations, and maintenance, thereby stimulating local economies. Nuclear power provides the consistent, large-scale electricity necessary to fuel heavy industries, manufacturing, and other sectors crucial for economic development.
However, while nuclear energy offers significant advantages, it also poses substantial challenges. The costs associated with constructing and operating nuclear power plants are considerable, and adherence to international nuclear safety standards and protocols is essential. Misuse of nuclear technology could pose serious national and regional security risks, and the long-term management of nuclear waste remains a critical concern.
Nuclear energy holds substantial promise for Africa’s future, but its successful adoption will require meticulous planning, robust governance, and international collaboration. While South Africa has already made strides in nuclear power, many other African nations are still in the exploratory phase. Ultimately, the future of nuclear energy in Africa will depend on the continent’s capacity to develop local expertise, ensure safety and security, and tackle the financial and infrastructural challenges that accompany such ambitious energy projects.
