Principal Secretary for Science, Research and Innovation Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak has called for stronger and more sustainable regulatory systems to enhance nuclear safety and security across Africa.
Speaking during the closing ceremony of the 23rd Meeting of the Steering Committee of the Forum of Nuclear Regulatory Bodies in Africa (FNRBA) in Mombasa on Friday, Prof. Abdulrazak said independent and credible regulatory frameworks are essential for the safe and secure use of nuclear science and technology.
The meeting, held from June 8 to 13, brought together nuclear regulatory experts, policymakers and stakeholders from across the continent to review progress and discuss ways of strengthening regulatory oversight for nuclear and radiological safety and security.
Prof. Abdulrazak said effective regulation plays a key role in building public confidence and enabling countries to use nuclear technologies to support socio-economic development.
He also emphasised the importance of regional cooperation, noting that nuclear safety and security challenges extend beyond national borders and require collaboration among African countries.
He called for greater harmonisation of regulatory approaches, continued knowledge sharing and stronger partnerships among regulatory authorities.
The Principal Secretary highlighted the need to continuously improve regulatory frameworks through stronger legislation, licensing systems, inspection programmes, emergency preparedness mechanisms and cybersecurity measures.
He further encouraged regulators to adopt emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, while maintaining high standards of safety and security.
Prof. Abdulrazak also stressed the importance of investing in capacity building to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the sector.
He called for the development of a new generation of African regulators, inspectors and technical experts, and advocated for stronger Technical Support Organisations and regional centres of excellence to provide specialised expertise across the continent.
The Principal Secretary commended the Forum of Nuclear Regulatory Bodies in Africa and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for their efforts in promoting regulatory excellence, knowledge exchange and capacity development.
He reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to supporting continental initiatives aimed at advancing the peaceful application of nuclear science and technology while maintaining high levels of safety, security and regulatory effectiveness.
The meeting ended with participating countries renewing their commitment to strengthening regulatory oversight, enhancing regional cooperation and supporting the safe, secure and sustainable use of nuclear and radiological technologies in Africa.
