Nuclear Dawn: Africa’s $105 Billion Energy Revolution
Africa is poised for a transformative leap in its energy landscape, with nuclear power emerging as a critical engine for economic growth, industrialization, and long-term energy security. With projections indicating that the continent could add up to 15,000 MW of nuclear capacity by 2035—a market potential estimated at around $105 billion—African governments are increasingly turning to nuclear energy as a reliable, low-carbon alternative to address persistent electricity deficits. This strategic shift is set against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving global energy paradigm, where nuclear power is regaining prominence as countries worldwide strive to achieve net-zero emissions and enhanced grid stability.
Growing Nuclear Ambitions Across Africa
Several African nations are at different stages of their nuclear energy journeys, with distinct plans tailored to their national energy goals. Countries such as Ghana, Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda have set ambitious targets to construct 1,000 MW nuclear power plants as part of their long-term energy strategies. These nations view nuclear energy as a vital component of their energy mix, capable of enhancing energy security and supporting economic development.
Larger economies like Nigeria and Egypt are spearheading major nuclear power projects. Each of these nations aims to deploy approximately 4,800 MW of nuclear capacity, positioning themselves as regional leaders in nuclear power development. South Africa, currently the only African country with an operational nuclear power plant, is expanding its capacity by an additional 2,500 MW, reinforcing its status as a key player in the sector. The growing number of African nations committing to nuclear power highlights a continental shift towards embracing nuclear technology as a sustainable and scalable energy source.
Strategic Developments Across the Continent
African nations are actively advancing their nuclear programs through a combination of regulatory reforms, international partnerships, and targeted infrastructure investments. Nigeria and Egypt, for instance, are spearheading major nuclear projects with ambitions to deploy approximately 4,800 MW of capacity each, positioning themselves as regional leaders. Meanwhile, countries such as Ghana, Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda have set ambitious targets to construct 1,000 MW nuclear power plants as part of their long-term energy strategies, underscoring a continental shift toward embracing nuclear technology. Substantials are being made by African countries to prepare for the implementation of a nuclear power plant as for instance the recent developments in Uganda provide a clear illustration of this momentum. Uganda is advancing site evaluations in collaboration with Korean experts, designating Soroti for a research reactor and Buyende for a nuclear power plant. Land acquisition, grid development updates, and human resource initiatives with Soroti University are underway, setting the stage for the establishment of the Uganda National Nuclear Company as the owner-operator once the new law is in place.
Another example of Africa's appeal for nuclear energy is Togo which has also demonstrated its commitment to nuclear energy as they are in the process of establishing an Atomic Energy Commission and a regulatory body through recent legislation. This framework is designed to ensure that its nuclear program—especially the deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)—complies with international safety and operational standards. Similarly, Ethiopia is accelerating its nuclear ambitions through a three-year cooperation roadmap signed with Rosatom in February 2025. Rosatom has further contracted with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Innovation and Technology to conduct a feasibility study for a Nuclear Science and Technology Center (NSTC), while the Ethiopian Atomic Energy Commission is being established with Russian technical assistance to meet IAEA safety standards.
Kenya, now in Phase II of the IAEA Milestones Approach, plans to begin constructing its first nuclear power plant in 2027, targeting grid connection by 2034, with Kilifi and Kwale identified as potential sites. The country is also establishing a Nuclear Research Reactor to enhance scientific, technological, and educational capabilities, further solidifying its role as a Regional Designated Centre under the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority. Ghana is positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s small modular reactor (SMR) sector through an agreement with U.S.-based Regnum Technology to deploy NuScale’s VOYGR-12 SMR. This initiative, secured at the Africa Nuclear Business Platform 2024, includes the establishment of Africa’s first NuScale Energy Exploration (E2) Center at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission. Ghana has also partnered with CNNC Overseas Limited to develop a Hualong One (HPR-1000) nuclear power project, announced at the 26th World Energy Congress, while an MoU with EDF explores EPR1200 reactor technology and capacity-building initiatives. Rwanda is moving into the SMR space through agreements with Nano Nuclear Energy and Dual Fluid Energy to explore modular and experimental reactor designs, while Togo signed an MoU with NANO Nuclear Energy to integrate nuclear power into its sustainable development plans. Burkina Faso is pursuing nuclear energy through agreements with Rosatom for plant construction, alongside regulatory enhancements and workforce development initiatives.
South Africa, home to the continent’s only operational nuclear power plant, has extended the lifespan of Koeberg Unit 1 by 20 years, making it one of approximately 120 reactors worldwide to surpass its original design life. Plans for an off-site Centralized Interim Storage Facility for spent fuel are progressing, and a request for proposals for the Multi-Purpose Research Reactor project is expected by 2025. The country is also expanding its nuclear capabilities through an MoU between the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA), isotope production company ASPI, and Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), reinforcing its position as a global nuclear technology player. Meanwhile, Nigeria continues advancing its nuclear power program, refining its stakeholder engagement strategy with IAEA support. Two potential sites—Geregu in Kogi State and another in Akwa Ibom—have been identified, while a recent MoU with China focuses on nuclear cooperation and human resource development.
Other African nations are also strengthening their nuclear capabilities: Tanzania is investing in nuclear science education and scholarships for professional training, Senegal is developing a research reactor, and Zimbabwe is considering SMRs to address hydropower challenges. Morocco is exploring SMRs for water desalination, while the Democratic Republic of Congo has sought IAEA assistance to restart the TRICO II research reactor.
Economic, Industrial, and Technological Impacts
The nuclear energy expansion in Africa promises to catalyze significant economic and industrial benefits. The development of nuclear power infrastructure will spur the creation of a robust local supply chain, stimulating demand in manufacturing, construction, and engineering sectors. Workforce development is another critical component, with initiatives designed to train a new generation of nuclear professionals and enhance technical capacity through partnerships with leading academic institutions and international agencies. Furthermore, nuclear energy’s inherent ability to provide stable baseload power—operating at capacity factors exceeding 90 percent—ensures that it can effectively complement variable renewable energy sources, thus contributing to overall grid stability and reduced electricity costs.
In addition to its operational benefits, nuclear energy is positioned to deliver substantial economic dividends. For example, in regions where nuclear projects are implemented, significant contributions to GDP, job creation, and increased household incomes have been documented. These factors, combined with technology transfer and enhanced regulatory frameworks, make Africa’s nuclear sector an attractive investment opportunity for international reactor vendors, financial institutions, and engineering firms.
Africa’s nuclear energy expansion is more than an ambitious infrastructural undertaking—it is a strategic imperative for a continent seeking to overcome chronic energy deficits and drive sustainable development. With a projected 15,000 MW of new nuclear capacity by 2035 and an estimated $105 billion investment potential, the opportunities are immense. The continent is rapidly strengthening its regulatory frameworks, developing supply chains, and advancing workforce training to establish itself as a key player in the global nuclear industry. As regulatory frameworks evolve and international partnerships deepen, Africa is well on its way to establishing a resilient, cost-effective, and sustainable nuclear energy future.
The upcoming Africa Nuclear Business Platform (AFNBP) 2025 in Rabat, Morocco, from April 22 to 24, will be a critical forum for policymakers, industry leaders, and investors to shape this future, ensuring that nuclear energy serves as a catalyst for economic transformation and long-term energy security across the continent.
