Zambia Moves to Strengthen Coordination for Nuclear Power Development

The Zambian Government has called for stronger coordination among stakeholders to advance its nuclear power programme, describing the initiative as critical to meeting the country’s long-term energy needs. 

The Technology and Science Minister, Felix Mutati, made the call during the closing ceremony of Phase One of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) Mission in Lusaka.

Mutati said Zambia’s nuclear power ambitions would require sustained investment in technology, natural resources and human resource development.

He also emphasised the need for closer collaboration between the Ministries of Technology and Science and Energy to ensure coordinated efforts towards developing the country’s nuclear infrastructure.

Meanwhile, the IAEA team leader, John Haddad, urged Zambia to strengthen its coordination mechanisms, legal frameworks and regulatory systems to provide the necessary foundation for nuclear power development.

He said effective institutional coordination and appropriate regulatory structures would be important in advancing the country’s nuclear programme.

Also speaking at the event, Energy Minister Peter Kapala, represented by the Director of Energy, Mafayo Ziba, said the recommendations from the IAEA mission would provide guidance for Zambia’s next steps in developing its nuclear infrastructure.

The government said the nuclear power programme would support the Grow Zambia Agenda and contribute to addressing the country’s long-term energy requirements.

The press statement was issued by Zambia’s Ministry of Technology and Science.