Rosatom can be a key partner in supporting African countries' nuclear energy ambitions by providing technical expertise, workforce training, and building critical infrastructure. The global nuclear industry giant could help Kenya establish a strong foundation for its nuclear program by advising on reactor design, operational safety, and enhancing professional capabilities, explains Michelle Wafula, an Electrical and Electronics Engineering student at Strathmore University, Nairobi, Kenya.
“Rosatom can actually be a very vital partner in helping Kenya realize its nuclear ambitions by offering technical expertise, capacity-building initiative, and infrastructure development. [...] And one of the most important things that Rosatom can help with is the capacity building. Because for you to develop nuclear energy sector, you require skilled engineers, technicians, scientists, regulators, and all that. [...] Russia and Kenya can have collaborations whereby students from Kenya can go to universities in Russia to learn about nuclear energy,” Wafula remarks.
This episode featured other finalists from the Atoms Empowering Africa competition:
Dr. Tinka George William from Uganda emphasizes the need for partnerships and specialized training to build Uganda’s nuclear energy capacity, which hinged on advancing nuclear technology and medicine.
Chidera Godsfavour Oguine from Nigeria stresses the importance of education and early exposure to nuclear science to foster understanding and interest in Nigeria’s youth, aiming to dispel misconceptions about nuclear energy.
Kamogelo Sehoole from South Africa highlights South Africa’s energy challenges, advocating for nuclear expansion to address power shortages while prioritizing public education and innovation through research funding.
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