In a major step toward transforming Africa’s energy future, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the G20 have unveiled a new publication Outlook for Nuclear Energy in Africa, spotlighting the continent rising interest in nuclear power. The announcement made at a high-profile event during the G20 Energy Transitions meeting in South Africa, reinforces nuclear energy central role in Africa clean energy roadmap.
With South Africa currently holding the G20 presidency, the country has emphasized the expansion of nuclear infrastructure, not just domestically but across the continent. At present, South Africa remains Africa’s only nuclear energy producer, operating two reactors at the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station, supplying around 2 GW of electricity.
The IAEA publication projects a five- to tenfold increase in Africa’s nuclear capacity by 2050, depending on the pace of development. Countries like Egypt, Ghana, and Kenya are already taking steps toward building nuclear infrastructure, with Egypt currently constructing its first nuclear power plant.
Driving this interest is the urgent need to shift away from fossil fuels, which still power over 70% of Africa’s electricity, and to tackle the stark reality that nearly 500 million Africans live without reliable access to electricity.
Zizamele Mbambo, Deputy Director General for Nuclear Energy in South Africa, highlighted the growing appeal of small modular reactors (SMRs) compact, cost-efficient nuclear systems suitable for the continent’s smaller grid systems. “SMRs offer the flexibility and low-carbon reliability Africa needs to modernize its energy landscape,” Mbambo said.
The report outlines how SMRs, paired with policy support and international cooperation, can help African nations deploy nuclear energy effectively. It also points to Africa strategic advantage in uranium mining, with Namibia, Niger, and South Africa ranked among the world’s top uranium producers a natural asset that could fuel the continent’s clean energy ambitions.
According to Frederik Reitsma, Head of the IAEA’s Nuclear Power Technology Development Section, nuclear energy offers benefits far beyond electricity. “It can accelerate Africa’s industrial growth, technological innovation, and resource development,” he noted.
The IAEA is already providing technical guidance, regulatory expertise, and infrastructure support to countries exploring nuclear energy. Its growing collaboration with G20 and the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) aims to streamline the transition process and build capacity across Africa.
Emma Wong from the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) praised the publication as a strategic tool to address energy security and development. Similarly, Jean-François Gagné, Head of the CEM Secretariat, stressed that international platforms like CEM are crucial for turning Africa’s nuclear vision into reality.
Looking ahead, the IAEA plans to present a new report on converting coal-based energy sites into nuclear power stations at the G20 Energy Transitions Ministerial Meeting in October, offering insights into repurposing fossil infrastructure for a clean future.
The strengthening partnership between the IAEA and G20 underscores a clear commitment: nuclear power will be key in ensuring Africa’s sustainable, inclusive, and secure energy future.