Title: Lessons from Enhancing Nuclear Safeguards in Africa programme
Author: Mr. Collins Omondi, African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE); Dr. David Otwoma, University of Nairobi (UoN)
Abstract: Nuclear power and nuclear applications are being embraced at an ever-increasing rate in the African region. African States have signed numerous intergovernmental agreements, placing countries on the roadmap of the IAEA’s Milestone approach to the acquisition of nuclear power. However, successful adoption of nuclear energy and application requires States to safeguard nuclear material and non-proliferation. In this regard, African Commission of Nuclear Energy (AFCONE), the European Union (EU) and Government of Finland (STUK) initiated a 5-year programme of Uplifting Nuclear Safeguards in Africa. The programme aims in practice to strengthen the State Systems of Accounting for Control of Nuclear Material (SSAC), enhance International Nuclear Safeguards and build capacity in reporting safeguards according to provision in the Pelindaba Treaty by States Parties. The project further envisions African States to develop capacity in fulfilling their obligations in accordance with the Pelindaba Treaty, Comprehensive Safeguards Agreements (CSP) and Additional Protocols (AP). The project now on the 2nd year of implementation, has fostered awareness of safeguards across African stakeholders by bringing them together through lectures, seminars, and exercises on topical issues. The programme has supported development of efficient and effective safeguards for nuclear material and installations, which is a key element of nuclear non-proliferation to State Parties under Pelindaba Treaty. The project has also supported AFCONE in ramping up its role as the regional knowledge-hub and coordinator for safeguards activities in Africa. Results of analysis of pelindaba treaty report received from African States certifies a non-proliferation scenario. Therefore, contributing to peace and security in the region, and globally. Initial capacity building activities of the pilot year were aimed at regulators of ten countries that have activities in the Uranium supply chain. Since the programme started, the rate of annual reporting by State parties has increased by 250% for the year 2022 and 85% for the year 2023.