Rwanda advances nuclear energy program with SMR technology

Rwanda is advancing its civilian nuclear program, entering Phase 2 of a plan backed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The country aims to develop 110 MW of nuclear power capacity between 2030 and 2033, primarily through the deployment of Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology. Key international partners supporting site studies and funding mobilization include Russia’s Rosatom and the U.S.-based Holtec International.

The Rwanda Atomic Energy Board (RAEB) is developing comprehensive safety measures covering site selection, reactor design, emergency response, and radioactive waste management. To ensure compliance, the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) will oversee licensing and inspections according to IAEA standards. The government also intends to expand its nuclear workforce from its current level to over 230 professionals by 2028.

Beyond electricity generation, Rwanda plans to utilize nuclear and isotopic techniques to enhance agricultural productivity, food safety, and healthcare. This includes participating in the IAEA-FAO Atoms4Food initiative and expanding medical capabilities such as radiopharmaceutical production and PET imaging for cancer diagnosis and treatment.