IAEA Begins Review of Rwanda's Nuclear Energy Preparedness

Administrator — 2026-03-04T08:52:01Z

The United Nations nuclear watchdog has begun assessing Rwanda's readiness to develop nuclear power infrastructure, as the country moves forward with plans to generate electricity from nuclear energy by 2030.

Experts from the International Atomic Energy Agency launched the review on March 2. The assessment, which runs through March 9, will examine whether Rwanda meets key requirements for establishing nuclear power facilities.

The evaluation covers 19 infrastructure elements, including national policy and regulatory frameworks, financing strategies and the country's capacity to manage nuclear safety, security and emergency preparedness.

Dr. Fidele Ndahayo, head of the Rwanda Atomic Energy Board, said Rwanda has invested in nuclear science education, medical equipment using nuclear technology and institutional development. He described the review as a benchmark to identify gaps and strengthen readiness.

IAEA team leader Aline des Cloizeaux said the agency does not decide whether a country can build nuclear plants but provides recommendations to help governments improve their preparedness.

Rwanda plans to deploy small modular reactors, or SMRs, capable of generating at least 100 megawatts of electricity per unit. In 2023, Rwanda signed an agreement with Dual Fluid Energy Inc., a German-Canadian company, to test advanced reactor technology.

Officials say nuclear power could support energy security while reducing carbon emissions.

Rwanda Plans $5 Billion Nuclear Power Plant to Boost Electricity Supply

Mugisha R. John — 2026-02-25T08:40:56Z

Rwanda plans to invest more than $5 billion in a nuclear power plant aimed at increasing electricity access across the country, officials said.

Dr. Fidel Ndahayo, director general of the Rwanda Atomic Energy Board (RAEB), made the announcement Feb. 24 during a meeting co-hosted by RAEB, the Ministry of Trade and Industry, and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa.

“The country cannot implement this project alone,” Dr. Ndahayo said. “It would be a loss if all the work is done by foreigners without involving our local industries.”

The meeting highlighted opportunities for private sector participation in Rwanda's first nuclear power initiative. Officials stressed that building the plant requires between $5 billion and $6 billion and would demand high-quality standards to ensure safety and efficiency.

Dr. Ndahayo said the nuclear plant is part of a broader strategy to meet growing national electricity demands. “This project will contribute significantly to our electricity supply and support industrial development nationwide,” he said.

Antoine Marie Kajangwe, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry, told industrial leaders that participating in the project could benefit their operations. “Your industries, including cement, steel, and construction materials, require substantial electricity,” he said. “A nuclear plant will help increase productivity and support economic growth.”

The government expects the first nuclear power plant to be operational by 2030, with the recruitment of roughly 230 employees by 2028. The plant will be built on 15 to 50 hectares of land located away from residential areas. Authorities emphasized that the facility poses no significant safety risks, as it is designed to automatically shut down if any operational issue occurs, preventing the release of harmful radiation.

Rwanda's nuclear energy program represents a significant step in diversifying the country's energy sources, which currently rely heavily on hydroelectric and solar power. Officials hope the project will create new opportunities for local industries while contributing to sustainable national development.

Vision Media

IAEA Begins Review of Rwanda's Nuclear Energy Preparedness

Rwanda Plans $5 Billion Nuclear Power Plant to Boost Electricity Supply