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Rosatom has signed a contract with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Innovation and Technology to conduct a feasibility study for the construction of a Nuclear Science and Technology Center (NSTC) in the country. Rosatom is the Russian state nuclear energy company. The initial work will be conducted by a Rosatom research subsidiary. Ethiopia is a member of BRICS and the lead nation in the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) trade bloc.
According to Rosatom, they will begin assessing Ethiopia’s non-energy sector to identify how nuclear technology can address the country’s economic needs. This analysis will help compile a list of potential users of these technologies, laying the groundwork for a market for commercial products and services based on the NSTC’s capabilities.
Belete Molla, Ethiopia’s Minister of Innovation and Technology, expressed optimism about the partnership, highlighting the importance of Rosatom’s role in helping Ethiopia advance its nuclear energy and non-energy programs. He said that Rosatom “will assist Ethiopia in developing national nuclear power and non-energy programs as well as individual projects.”
Rosatom has emphasized its goal of promoting nuclear development in Africa. Ilya Vergizaev, an Executive Director, stated. “We are working with our international partners on various projects and joint solutions to develop nuclear and radiation technologies on the African continent.” He added that the agreement solidifies the long-term commitment of both nations to collaborative progress in this field.
Anatoly Bashkin, Director of the Africa Department at the Russian Foreign Ministry, highlighted Rosatom’s pivotal role in Africa’s energy development during the ‘Russia-Africa: What’s Next?’ forum at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO). He emphasized that Africa is increasingly attractive for investments in high-tech industries, noting Rosatom’s active promotion of projects for the peaceful use of nuclear energy. These initiatives include constructing centers based on multipurpose research reactors and, in the future, nuclear power plants, while aiming to enhance Africa’s energy security and industrial growth.
Last October, Burkina Faso signed an agreement with Rosatom for the construction of a nuclear power plant. Rosatom have also completed the fourth power unit at the El-Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant in Egypt. The project is financed jointly by Moscow and Cairo, while the Rosatom will supply nuclear fuel to the facility throughout its life cycle. A potential Ethiopian NPP would probably follow a similar structure.
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