Africa CEO Forum Flags Need for Tapping Nuclear Energy to Achieve Self-Sufficiency

(3 Minutes Read)

Necsa plans to develop nuclear fuel from raw uranium, leveraging South Africa’s and the continent’s uranium resources. Additionally, the corporation aims to build SMRs and explore multiple applications of research reactors, including power generation and isotope production for medical use.

At the Africa CEO Forum 2025, nuclear energy emerged as a focal point in discussions about Africa’s energy future. Loyiso Tyabashe, CEO of South Africa’s Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa), emphasized on integrating nuclear power with renewable sources to ensure a stable and affordable energy supply.

Addressing concerns about radioactive waste, Tyabashe assured that Necsa has maintained comprehensive records of all waste since the operation of its research reactor in 1965 and power reactor in 1984.

The potential of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) was also discussed. Tyabashe noted that SMRs promise quicker deployment and lower capital costs, making them suitable for countries with smaller power grids. “It’s not a one-size-fits-all; we need to match generation technology to each country’s grid stability,” he explained.

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Looking ahead, Necsa plans to develop nuclear fuel from raw uranium, leveraging South Africa’s and the continent’s uranium resources. Additionally, the corporation aims to build SMRs and explore multiple applications of research reactors, including power generation and isotope production for medical use.