MWE Correspondent
Tanzania is preparing to meet its rapidly growing energy demands by incorporating nuclear power into its national electricity grid.
This plan was announced by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, during the recent Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa held in Kigali, Rwanda.
Dr. Biteko emphasized the government’s strong commitment, under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, to diversify the country’s energy mix to ensure reliable and sustainable power for its expanding industrial sector. “Our focus is to integrate electricity generated from nuclear sources into the national grid, ensuring the energy needs of our growing economy are met efficiently,” he said.
As Tanzania’s economy expands, fueled by increased industrialization and infrastructure development, the demand for electricity continues to rise. While existing sources such as hydropower and natural gas have been the backbone of power generation, they are becoming insufficient to keep up with this surge in demand. Nuclear energy offers a viable alternative due to its capacity to produce large amounts of low-carbon, consistent power.
Also Read; UK to Open Satellite Diplomatic Office in Dodoma
Developing nuclear power requires careful planning and adherence to strict safety and regulatory standards. Tanzania is collaborating with international bodies, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to build the necessary infrastructure, train specialized personnel, and establish robust regulatory frameworks for the peaceful and safe use of nuclear technology.
Nuclear power generation involves the process of nuclear fission, where atomic nuclei are split to release vast amounts of energy. This method produces continuous electricity with minimal greenhouse gas emissions, positioning nuclear energy as a clean and efficient power source. However, it demands rigorous oversight to mitigate risks related to radioactive materials and environmental safety.
Tanzania aims to integrate nuclear energy into its grid within the next decade, marking a significant milestone toward a diversified and sustainable energy future.
The announcement received positive feedback from energy experts at the summit, who highlighted the importance of community engagement, transparency, and environmental protection in the adoption of nuclear technologies. If successfully implemented, Tanzania will join a select group of African nations exploring nuclear energy to support economic development and energy security.
