A subsidiary of Rosatom, the Russian nuclear energy company, and the Ministry of Innovation and Technology of Ethiopia have signed a contract to develop a feasibility study for the establishment of the Ethiopia Nuclear Science and Technology Centre (NSTC).
This partnership marks a significant step in the long-term cooperation between Russia and Ethiopia in the field of nuclear science and technology.
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Strengthening cooperation in nuclear and radiation technologies
Ilya Vergizaev, divisional head of Rosatom, stated, “We are working with our foreign partners on various projects and joint solutions for the development of nuclear and radiation technologies on the African continent. The signed contract and the appointment of Rosatom as the exclusive supplier of solutions in the field of feasibility study development for NSTC in Ethiopia once again confirm our countries’ intention to strengthen long-term cooperation.”
The NSTC is envisioned to become a hub for both nuclear energy and non-energy technologies in Ethiopia. As part of this initiative, Rosatom will carry out an analysis of the country’s non-energy sector to identify which technologies can be implemented at the Centre’s key facilities. A key part of the study will be identifying potential users for these technologies, which will ultimately help create a commercial market for the products and services generated by the Centre. Preliminary engineering surveys for site selection will also be conducted.
Building a nuclear future for Ethiopia
Ethiopia’s Minister of Innovation and Technology, Belete Molla, emphasized that the collaboration between the two nations is focused on the peaceful use of nuclear energy. “We are systematically developing cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and I expect Rosatom to assist Ethiopia in developing national nuclear power and non-energy programmes, as well as individual projects,” he said.
Rosatom’s proposal includes providing solutions for the development of the NSTC, which will consist of a research reactor, a laboratory complex, and potentially a multi-purpose irradiation and nuclear medicine centre. Beyond construction, Rosatom will also support the establishment of nuclear infrastructure, training, fuel supply, and maintenance. The company will also provide operational support, as well as the management of spent fuel and radioactive waste.
A comprehensive approach to nuclear research
The Centre’s core will consist of a nuclear research reactor and multiple laboratories, including a radioisotope laboratory for producing medical, industrial, and agricultural radioisotopes. Other research facilities will include a radiobiology laboratory for agricultural research, a radiation materials science complex, and others focused on studying and developing new materials.
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Rosatom’s commitment to innovation and sustainability
Rosatom is a diversified holding company operating in energy, engineering, construction, and innovative non-nuclear products. It also plays a pivotal role in logistics, environmental projects, and the development of the Northern Sea Route.
As the largest producer of low-carbon electricity in Russia, Rosatom provides about 20 percent of the country’s total electricity. The company is also ranked first globally in terms of orders for the construction of nuclear power plants, with 39 power units under development across 10 countries.
This collaboration with Ethiopia will help position the country as a key player in nuclear science and technology, fostering growth, innovation, and the sustainable development of Africa’s energy future.