Tanzania banks on ATLAS initiative to advance innovative nuclear technologies

WASHINGTON: TANZANIA has thrown its weight behind the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) new ATLAS initiative, describing it as a major step towards advancing innovative nuclear technologies and expanding the use of nuclear energy globally.

Minister for Energy and Vice-President-elect Deogratius Ndejembi made the statement when addressing variois participants at a conference of the Atomic Technologies Licensed for Application at Sea (ATLAS), held in Washington, D.C., from August 26–27, 2026.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Ndejembi said the initiative will help countries respond to growing energy challenges while strengthening energy security, supporting industrialisation and addressing climate change.

Additionally, he commended the IAEA for facilitating the launch of ATLAS, saying the initiative provides an important platform for advancing innovative nuclear technologies and widening their potential applications.

“The major changes taking place in the global energy sector require countries to work together in finding solutions that can strengthen energy security, promote industrial development, address climate change and ensure people have access to reliable, affordable and sustainable energy,” he said.

The minister said Tanzania was pursuing a diversified energy mix to strengthen energy access, with the government continuing to invest in hydropower, natural gas, solar, wind and other renewable energy sources.

He added that Tanzania was closely monitoring developments in innovative energy technologies, including nuclear technology, as part of efforts to expand access to safe, reliable and sustainable energy.

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According to Ndejembi, embracing emerging energy technologies would also create opportunities to accelerate Tanzania’s economic and social development.

He said Tanzania would continue to engage with international partners and follow technological developments that could contribute to the country’s long-term energy security and development goals.