Photo caption: ROSATOM logo
By Emeka Ugwuanyi
Rosatom and South Africa’s AllWeld Nuclear and Industrial have sealed deal on joining forces to promote the sustainable development of nuclear energy in Africa.
The memorandum outlines a framework for cooperation and the implementation of joint initiatives in the areas of decommissioning and radioactive waste management (RWM) at nuclear facilities in South Africa.
Rosatom’s Fuel Division (TVEL) and the South African company AllWeld Nuclear and Industrial signed a memorandum of cooperation focused on decommissioning and radioactive waste (RW) management during the African Energy Week (AEW) 2024 in Cape Town.
According to a statement by Lada Terentyeva, Rosatom Africa PR Support, the document was signed by Eduard Nikitin, Director for Decommissioning and RW Management at TVEL JSC, and Mervyn Fischer, CEO of AllWeld Nuclear and Industrial.
This memorandum outlines plans for collaborative efforts in scientific, technical and commercial activities related to the decommissioning of nuclear power plants and other facilities that pose nuclear and radiation hazards.
The key aspects of cooperation will be the development of infrastructure for radioactive waste management, including its processing, storage and disposal, as well as the design and creation of components for the equipment needed to meet the challenges in this area in South Africa.
“Rosatom possesses extensive experience and expertise in the decommissioning of nuclear facilities and radioactive waste management. This includes a wealth of references, proprietary technologies, and a comprehensive research program. Such expertise is certainly sought after in countries around the world that have nuclear power, uranium mining, or experience with operating research reactors.
The recent signing of a memorandum with South African partners marks a pivotal step in fostering collaborative efforts. This partnership is expected to pave the way for new opportunities to implement joint projects, not only within South Africa and beyond”, stated Eduard Nikitin.
