South Africa expands nuclear ambitions as it seeks to compete in growing SMR market

SOUTH Africa is accelerating its nuclear energy ambitions as it positions itself to compete with China in the fast-growing African market for nuclear fuel and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), Minister of Electricity and Energy Kgosientsho Ramokgopa said on Sunday.

- BANELE GININDZA

More than 20 African countries are now at advanced stages of planning SMR installations, creating what the minister described as an “insatiable” continental demand for nuclear fuel.

Ramokgopa said South Africa’s nuclear development strategy is being revived and expanded, spanning the entire fuel cycle—from uranium enrichment partnerships with neighbouring countries to long-term waste disposal infrastructure.

At the core of the strategy is the planned 2 400MW nuclear new-build programme at Duynefontein, the 20-year life extension of Koeberg’s two units, and the strengthening of institutions such as the National Radioactive Waste Disposal Institute (NRWDI).