Omanghana
Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda, has emphasized the importance of nuclear power in the country’s long-term development strategy during the Nuclear Energy Summit held in Paris. Speaking at the summit, Kagame said nuclear energy will play a central role in Rwanda’s Vision 2050 plan to transform the country into a high-income economy. He argued that nuclear technology should not be viewed as too complex or too risky for developing nations and described it as essential for supporting Africa’s industrial growth.
A key focus of Rwanda’s plan is the adoption of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). Kagame explained that SMRs are particularly suitable for African countries because they can operate efficiently with smaller electricity grids. He predicted that Africa could become a major global market for this emerging nuclear technology.
Rwanda aims to significantly diversify its energy mix through nuclear power, with long-term plans for nuclear energy to supply between 60 and 70 percent of the country’s electricity. Officials believe this would provide the stable and reliable power required to support industrialization and sustained economic growth.
The government has also been investing in human capital development to support the sector. Hundreds of Rwandans have already received training in nuclear science and engineering, and a new academic program has been introduced at the University of Rwanda to build local expertise.
During his address, Kagame called on international financial institutions to expand their support for nuclear energy projects in developing countries. He noted that many development banks are still unfamiliar with financing models for nuclear power and urged them to create tailored funding packages.
He also acknowledged the role of the International Atomic Energy Agency in supporting Rwanda’s preparations through technical cooperation with the Rwanda Atomic Energy Board. An IAEA mission conducted in March 2026 reviewed Rwanda’s readiness for nuclear power development across 19 key areas, including regulatory frameworks and safety standards.
As part of its broader push for regional collaboration, Rwanda is also set to host the 2026 Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa in Kigali later this year.
The country’s goal is to have its first operational small modular reactor in place by the early 2030s as it continues building the infrastructure and expertise needed to support a nuclear-powered energy future.
Source: Omanghana
