Zambia, IAEA pledge to deepen nuclear development cooperation

Zambia and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Monday pledged to deepen cooperation in nuclear programs, including cancer care and nuclear energy development.

The commitment came during talks between a team from the IAEA's Division for Africa and officials from Zambia's Ministry of Technology and Science in Lusaka, the Zambian capital, a ministry statement said.

Discussions focused on collaboration in cancer care, radiation medicine, nuclear energy development, equipment provision, technical training and strengthening regulatory capacity.

Derick Saboi, director of planning and information at the ministry, acknowledged the agency's support for cancer treatment services and capacity-building programs, saying the assistance was important as Zambia prepares to develop its nuclear energy program.

Saboi urged the IAEA to sustain its support and facilitate the participation of Zambian officials in relevant technical, policy and legal meetings.

Gashaw Wolde, acting director of the IAEA's Technical Cooperation Division for Africa, described Zambia as a longstanding partner in health, science and technology.

He also commended the country's efforts to expand radiation medicine through the refurbishment of facilities and acquisition of equipment.

Wolde welcomed Zambia's progress in establishing the foundations for its nuclear energy program, including safety infrastructure and technical training.

He reaffirmed the agency's readiness to continue supporting Zambia through national and regional projects, according to the statement.