Tanzania takes bold step towards nuclear energy future

By The Respondent Reporter

The Ministry of Energy has begun implementing President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s directive to prepare Tanzania for the safe and sustainable use of nuclear energy for electricity generation a move that signals a new era in the country’s pursuit of long-term energy security.

This follows President Samia’s address to Parliament on June 27, 2025, in which she called for immediate steps to explore nuclear energy as part of Tanzania’s future energy mix. 

In response, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Dr. Khatibu Kazungu, on Monday led a high-level working session in Dar es Salaam, bringing together senior government officials, heads of energy institutions, regulators, and environmental experts.

Dr. Kazungu said the ministry is fully committed to translating the President’s vision into action.

“The Ministry of Energy will ensure close supervision of the nuclear energy development process, guided by global safety standards. Our aim is to guarantee that Tanzania benefits from a safe, reliable, and long-lasting source of electricity,” he said.

The meeting agreed on the need to prepare a National Roadmap that will guide the country’s nuclear energy journey from now until 2050. 

Dr. Kazungu directed the National Task Force on Nuclear Energy to lead the process of drafting this strategic plan, outlining each key milestone from policy development and public education to investment frameworks and feasibility studies.

He emphasized that the initiative will begin with a thorough assessment of the country’s uranium reserves, the development of supporting laws and policies, and extensive public engagement to build trust and understanding around nuclear energy.

Also speaking during the session, the Commissioner for Electricity and Renewable Energy, Engineer Innocent Luoga, stressed the importance of public education.

“We need to demystify nuclear energy. It’s not a threat it’s an opportunity. Tanzanians need to understand its benefits, how it is controlled, and the strict international safety protocols that govern its use,” said Engineer Luoga.

The push for nuclear energy marks a significant milestone in Tanzania’s ambition to expand and diversify its power generation capacity. With rising electricity demand, a growing population, and the need to support industrial growth, nuclear power is seen as a reliable complement to other energy sources such as hydropower, natural gas, and solar.

This initiative also positions Tanzania alongside a small but growing group of African nations exploring nuclear energy as a clean and dependable alternative to fossil fuels. 

By investing in nuclear power, Tanzania is strengthening its commitment to sustainable development, technological innovation, and climate resilience under the leadership of President Samia.

Post a Comment

Previous Post Next Post

Advertisement

Put your ad code here