The Nuclear Energy Programme Implementing Organisation – NEPIO says the coming of the Centre for Nuclear Science and Technology – CNST and Nuclear Power Plant – NPP will help contribute to the diversification Zambia’s economy.
Last year, the Zambian Government and Russia’s Rosatom signed a contract for the construction of a Center for Nuclear Science and Technology – CNST to be located in Chongwe. Head of NEPIO Dr. Roland Msiska said the establishment of the Nuclear Research Centre in Chongwe would add value to gemstones through enhanced coloration for local and export markets.
In a statement made available to the Zambian Business Times – ZBT by NEPIO head of Public Awareness Chisha Mutale, Dr. Msiska said the Research Reactor Facility at the Centre would also be used for neutron activation analysis, mineral characterization of various ore and detection of undeclared minerals thereby increasing mineral taxation.
He said the establishment of the nuclear centre in Zambia would enhance the capability to export products into the European market adding that most of the European countries have set standards that require agricultural product coming into their markets to be gamma irradiated that eliminates insects.
“You do recall that at one time, the South African Government had banned our honey products from entering their country. The reason behind their decision was because our honey was not gamma irradiated. However, with the coming of this Centre, such bans will not affect us anymore, “he said.
He added that the Centre would also be used for the treatment of cancer patients and easy detection of leaking pipes using isotope techniques and production of chips for computers and cell phones.
Dr. Msiska also noted that the decision by government to include nuclear energy in the country’s energy mix came as a result of the severe drought the country had experienced during the 2015/2016 rain season. He said the drought resulted in a reduction of the country’s economic growth by 40%, prompting Government to explore other power sources such as nuclear energy, which is not adversely affected by weather. He further said Nuclear energy is not here to replace other renewable energies such as solar and hydro power but will be part of the energy mix of the country.
