Zambia and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) announced on Monday their intention to strengthen cooperation in the field of nuclear programs, which covers the development of nuclear energy and cancer treatment.
This commitment was made during meetings between the IAEA Department for Africa delegation and representatives of Zambia's Ministry of Science and Technology in Lusaka, the capital of Zambia, according to the ministry's statement.
Discussions focused on joint work in cancer treatment, radiation medicine, nuclear energy development, equipment provision, technical training, and strengthening regulatory capacities.
Derek Saboy, the ministry's director of planning and information, noted the value of the agency's support in cancer treatment services and capacity-building programs, emphasizing that this assistance is important in Zambia's process of preparing for the development of its nuclear energy program.
Saboy called on the IAEA to continue its support and facilitate the participation of Zambian officials in relevant technical, political, and legal meetings.
Gashau Wolde, the Acting Director of IAEA Technical Cooperation for Africa, characterized Zambia as a long-standing partner in the fields of health, science, and technology.
He also highly praised the country's efforts to expand radiation medicine through facility modernization and the acquisition of new equipment. Wolde welcomed Zambia's successes in laying the foundations for its nuclear energy program, including safety infrastructure and personnel training. The agency confirmed its readiness to continue supporting Zambia within national and regional projects.