Africa meets in TZ on nuclear safety
DAR ES SALAAM: A WEEK-LONG regional training programme on radiation safety in the non-medical use of nuclear technology is underway in Tanzania, bringing together 35 participants from 25 African countries to strengthen expertise and enhance radiation protection practices across the continent.
Organised by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the training aims to enhance the capacity of professionals responsible for radiation safety while strengthening regulatory systems across the continent. Opening the workshop recently,
Board Member and Director General of the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH), Dr Amos Nungu, who represented the Director General of the Tanzania Atomic Energy Commission (TAEC), underscored the importance of regional cooperation in promoting the safe use of nuclear technology for socioeconomic development.
He said the programme provides a platform for African countries to learn from international experts and exchange experiences on the application of nuclear technology in nonmedical sectors.
“The training offers African countries an opportunity to learn from international experts while sharing experiences on the progress each country has made in the use of nuclear technology for non-medical applications,” Dr Nungu said.
He said participants will present their countries’ achievements, challenges and best practices in radiation safety management, enabling them to learn from one another and strengthen their national systems.
Dr Nungu also urged Tanzanian participants to take full advantage of the training by learning from experts from countries with extensive experience in radiation safety, including Portugal, as well as their counterparts from across Africa.
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He said the collaboration fostered through the programme will help strengthen radiation safety, improve regulatory systems and support the safe expansion of nuclear technology in line with international safety standards.
Meanwhile, TAEC Radiation Safety Researcher and Inspector Elisha Edmund said the training is designed to strengthen the knowledge and skills of professionals responsible for managing radiation safety in nonmedical applications.
He said the programme will enhance monitoring and improve preparedness to detect and respond to radioactive equipment or materials that could pose safety risks.
“The discussions will also focus on addressing challenges in radiation safety management to ensure the protection of workers, the public and the environment,” Mr Edmund said.
He added that building the capacity of radiation safety professionals is vital to ensuring the safe and effective use of nuclear technology for sustainable development across Africa.
