By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
Togo is calling for a
coordinated African approach to nuclear energy that prioritises preparation,
strategic partnerships and financing as nuclear power returns to the centre of
global energy strategies.
President of the Council
Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé made the call as Guest of Honour at the 51st edition
of the World Nuclear Symposium, where he advocated for greater consideration of
Africa’s role and opportunities in the emerging nuclear energy landscape.
Gnassingbé said Africa’s
approach to nuclear energy should be based less on announcements and more on
the practical groundwork needed to develop sustainable nuclear programmes.
He emphasised the importance
of strengthening national preparedness, building partnerships and mobilising
the financing required to develop the necessary infrastructure, skills and
institutional capacity.
The President of the Council
said the renewed global interest in nuclear energy presents opportunities for
African countries to explore its potential contribution to energy security,
economic development and industrial growth.
He also stressed the need
for African countries to position themselves strategically within the evolving
global nuclear sector rather than remain passive observers of developments
taking place elsewhere.
The call comes as countries
around the world increasingly revisit nuclear energy as part of efforts to
diversify energy systems, strengthen energy security and support long-term
economic development.
Togo’s participation in the
World Nuclear Symposium reflects its intention to contribute to international
discussions on the future of nuclear energy while advocating for Africa to
develop a more coordinated and prepared position in the emerging global nuclear
landscape.
