Renthia Kaimbi
Africa should not shy away from nuclear energy, Namibia’s National Planning Commission (NPC) director general Kaire Mbuende has said.
Mbuende said nuclear power remains a necessary option for meeting future energy needs.
He was speaking at the World Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, last week.
Mbuende said global debates around energy security must include nuclear power, especially for countries that already supply uranium to the world.
“As the largest producer of uranium in Africa and the third largest in the world, we cannot shy away from the prospect of generating nuclear energy, especially when our raw materials are fueling nuclear energy plants around the world,” he said.
Mbuende said Namibia’s interest in nuclear energy is linked to broader efforts to diversify the mining sector and add value to its mineral resources. He said access to energy remains central to development.
“Namibia regards access to affordable energy as a right to which all are entitled,” he said.
He noted that fewer than 60% of Namibians currently have access to electricity and that the country imports about 60% of its power from South Africa.
While Namibia continues to expand solar and wind capacity and explore oil, gas and hydrogen, Mbuende said nuclear energy is viewed as part of a long-term solution to energy security.
He said the government has developed a national strategy that addresses the broader nuclear industry and is laying the groundwork for future projects.
“We are committed to ensuring that every step that we are taking in developing the sector is in full compliance with the guidelines of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA),” Mbuende said.
He said plans include building governance structures, strengthening institutions, and developing human resources to support nuclear projects, including power generation.
Mbuende also pointed to growing interest in small modular reactors, saying they offer flexibility and improved safety. He said several such reactors are under development worldwide, with two already in operation.
He said Namibia plans to work with countries that have experience in nuclear energy and to cooperate with other African states.
“We intend to develop this sector in close collaboration and partnership with those who have proven knowledge and experience in the sector,” Mbuende said.
“We are committed to working with other African countries to share best practices with the view to overcoming teething problems.”
