Nuclear research future bright
THE nuclear research center for Zambia will make it possible to achieve its ambitious socio-economic goals, as the potential of the center has a broad range of applications in medicine, agriculture, mining exploration and industry.
Rosatom Overseas director for Nuclear Research Reactors, Dmitry Vysotskaya said during the just ended workshop on nuclear energy and the benefits of nuclear science and technologies development for Zambia held in Lusaka, experts agree that the development of nuclear will make it possible for Zambia to become one of the technological and industrial leaders in Central and Eastern Africa.
Mr Vysotskaya said during the workshop where Rosatom showcased Russia’s over 70year experience in the nuclear field and fully explored the benefits of a Centre for Nuclear Science and Technology (CNST) as well as the development of nuclear power plants (NPPs) in the country.
Mr Vysotskaya said experts also agreed upon the notion that the further development of nuclear energy in Zambia would help the country to meet its electricity demand because it was a key component of a clean and sustainable energy strategy, as it addresses the need for greenhouse gas emissions reduction, economic development and energy security.
“Rosatom has already committed to help Zambia prepare personnel for the Center. There are currently a number of Zambian students enrolled at Russian leading Universities, who are studying in various fields of nuclear science.,” said Mr Vysotskaya.
Meanwhile, Viktor Polikarpov, regional vice-president of Rosatom Central and Southern Africa highlighted the social and economic benefits of nuclear power for Zambia.
Mr Polikarpov said nuclear energy offers far more than just affordable and clean energy, it stimulates industrial growth, job creation, and ultimately the country’s economy.
He said the development of nuclear energy will allow Zambia to strengthen its position as one of the leading countries in the continent.
He invited Zambia to start on a “nuclear journey” which will allow the country to become a regional hub for nuclear science and technology and boost its industrial and economic development.
“We have to align and coordinate all activities on the development of nuclear infrastructure, human resources training and the public acceptance in a timely manner to ensure an NPP is commissioned on time and in compliance with the highest international quality and safety standards,” he said.