Forum pitches for safety of nuclear material on transit

Kenya has amplified calls for collaboration in southern and eastern Africa in tackling threats associated with nuclear and radioactive material.

This came as representatives of eight countries met in Nairobi for an East African symposium to explore ways of improving safety and security during the transportation of such material.

Regulators and security officials from Kenya, DR Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia are attending the May 6 – May 9, 2024 talks convened by the United States Office of Radiological Security (ORS).

Among other roles, the ORS works with government, law enforcement, and businesses across the globe to protect radioactive sources used for medical, research, and commercial purposes.

Countries made presentations on their situation as regards safety and security.

Terrorism is among the concerns discussed, along with acts of sabotage, accidents and disjointed security measures by countries. The potential for malicious actors to target shipments for theft to cause harm is also featured.

Addressing the forum, Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority (KNRA) Director General James Keter said tackling threats in transporting the material calls for sustained collaborations between regulators and security teams across the region.

“Our presence here underscores our shared dedication to tackling the intricate challenges linked with transporting radioactive materials," Mr Keter said in a speech read by KNRA Director for Partnerships Edward Mayaka.

"These substances, indispensable in sectors like medicine, agriculture, industry, and research, necessitate the utmost levels of security and regulatory vigilance.” 

It emerged that despite the safe packages for nuclear and radioactive material, emergencies could still occur for which prompt action by countries is required to prevent harm to humans and the environment.

Millions of packages of radioactive material are transported by rail, road, sea and air annually for use in medicine, energy, military, research and manufacturing.

Mr Keter added: “Through collective action, we can establish robust regulatory frameworks, enhance detection capabilities, and bolster response mechanisms to effectively address security threats and challenges.”

The forum called for the harmonisation of basic laws and transport protocols relating to licencing and export-import permits across the region, with participants asking governments, international organisations, and stakeholders to constantly consult with the view to ensuring safe and secure transportation in Africa.

According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the transport of radioactive material by its nature gives rise to the risk of accidents with the potential for radiological exposures that could impact the safety of people, property and the environment.

The regional forum, which ends on Thursday, is focused on regulatory frameworks, security measures, threat assessment, emergency response and accident preparedness, public communication and perception, incident analysis, international collaboration and best practices sharing.