IAEA-G20 Partnership Highlights Growing Role of Nuclear Energy Across Africa

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Group of Twenty (G20) have marked a significant milestone this week, deepening their cooperation through the release of an important new publication exploring nuclear power's potential across Africa. The publication, titled "Outlook for Nuclear Energy in Africa," was unveiled at a high-profile event organized in collaboration with the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) and South Africa's Department of Electricity and Energy, coinciding with a key G20 energy transitions meeting held in South Africa.

This development follows the IAEA’s inaugural participation in the G20 forum under Brazil’s presidency last year, signaling a strengthening of relations between the world's leading economies and the nuclear agency. South Africa, currently holding the G20 presidency, has prioritized nuclear power and is actively partnering with the IAEA to foster nuclear infrastructure across the continent.

South Africa remains the sole African nation currently operating nuclear power plants, with the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station's two reactors providing approximately two gigawatts of electricity generation capacity. However, interest and enthusiasm for nuclear energy have surged continent-wide, driven by growing electricity demands and the imperative to transition from fossil fuels, which currently account for over 70% of Africa’s electricity.

Zizamele Mbambo, Deputy Director General for Nuclear Energy at South Africa’s Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, emphasized Africa’s significant interest in adopting nuclear technology, particularly small modular reactors (SMRs), which are well-suited for Africa's diverse grid infrastructure needs. "SMRs are increasingly popular globally due to their flexibility and ability to deliver reliable, low-carbon power across varied applications and locations," Mbambo noted.

The IAEA’s new publication underscores this momentum, highlighting Egypt's ongoing construction of its first nuclear power plant, alongside efforts by Ghana and Kenya to develop the infrastructure required to initiate their nuclear energy programs. According to the IAEA’s projections, Africa’s nuclear capacity could expand tenfold by 2050 under optimistic scenarios. Even conservative estimates predict a fivefold increase from current levels, reflecting substantial growth potential.

Addressing the energy poverty faced daily by roughly 500 million people across Africa, the publication delves into the strategic steps needed for successful nuclear deployment. Critical factors identified include securing financing, implementing supportive governmental policies, and promoting regional collaboration. The IAEA is actively assisting African countries in overcoming these barriers, providing expertise and guidance on regulatory frameworks, infrastructure development, and technological know-how.

Frederik Reitsma, Head of the IAEA’s Nuclear Power Technology Development Section, highlighted the multifaceted benefits of nuclear energy, stating, “Access to reliable and low-carbon nuclear energy can significantly enhance Africa’s capacity to exploit and add value to its rich natural resources, including uranium. Nuclear energy programs not only generate clean electricity but also stimulate industrial growth and technological advancements across various sectors.”

The report places particular emphasis on SMRs, outlining their advantages such as compatibility with smaller grid systems typical in Africa, reduced capital costs, and scalability. Additionally, the report identifies uranium mining as a notable economic opportunity for the continent, already a significant producer through nations like Namibia, Niger, and South Africa, all ranked among the top ten global uranium producers.

Emma Wong from the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) echoed the significance of this publication, describing it as an essential resource in the ongoing global efforts toward energy security. Wong emphasized that strategic collaboration on nuclear energy initiatives is vital for achieving the broad economic, environmental, and societal goals envisioned by G20 nations.

Jean-François Gagné, Head of the CEM Secretariat, reinforced this sentiment, noting the CEM's role as a trusted international platform for dialogue and practical cooperation. Gagné highlighted the organization's ongoing support to African nations such as Ghana and Kenya, facilitating their exploration of nuclear energy as a pivotal component in their clean energy strategies.

Looking ahead, the IAEA is preparing further engagements for the upcoming G20 Energy Transitions Ministerial Meeting in South Africa, scheduled for October. An anticipated report focusing on transitioning coal-based energy sites to nuclear power generation will be released ahead of the summit, providing detailed insights into the economic and technical considerations of this transformative process.

The enhanced partnership between the IAEA and G20 illustrates a proactive, collective commitment to sustainable energy transitions, positioning nuclear energy as a cornerstone for Africa's future economic growth and environmental sustainability.