Rwanda leads Africa’s nuclear energy ambitions at NEISA summit

In late June 2025, Rwanda hosted the first Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa (NEISA) aimed at addressing energy shortages and improving living standards across the continent. The summit brought together ministers, companies, and experts to discuss the potential role of nuclear energy in diversifying Africa's energy mix, which is crucial given the rapid population growth and rising energy demands in many African nations. With countries like South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria facing challenges in developing large-scale reactors due to existing infrastructure limitations, smaller nations like Rwanda are exploring options like Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as a viable solution. The event also highlighted the recent policy shifts influencing nuclear energy development in Africa. The World Bank has lifted its ban on nuclear energy funding, and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is developing partnerships with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to enhance nuclear safety and infrastructure across the continent. These developments signify a renewed interest and commitment to nuclear energy as a sustainable solution, despite the challenges of financing and the need for skilled personnel in the nuclear sector. Zerbo, a former Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization, and a current advisor on nuclear energy to leaders in Africa stressed the importance of regional cooperation in financing nuclear projects, suggesting models such as joint procurement schemes. This growing interest in nuclear energy comes amid concerns over energy stability and the capability of African countries to support advanced nuclear technology. Many nations on the continent are seeking to remedy chronic energy shortages. The challenges extend to developing human resources and qualified engineers necessary for ensuring the sustainable growth of the nuclear sector. As established nuclear companies from Russia and China position themselves in Africa's developing markets, there’s an urgent need for local nations to cultivate their own expertise and regulatory frameworks. The NEISA 2025 summit showcased significant interest in nuclear energy investment and addressed how to overcome barriers related to acquiring modern reactor technology, emphasizing the crucial role of capacity building. While larger nations may struggle with infrastructure, Rwanda stands as an example of how smaller countries can embrace innovative nuclear solutions to meet their energy needs. Through initiatives like NEISA, Africa is starting to organize its approach to harness nuclear power, moving towards more sustainable and abundant energy solutions that aim to elevate the continent's living standards and energy infrastructure. The summit concluded with a commitment to further collaboration among African nations in the nuclear space, highlighting the potential of SMRs as key players in the continent's energy mix.