IAEA assists Uganda uranium review

An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team has finished an inaugural review of Uganda's uranium production.

Uganda's capabilities to develop a uranium exploration programme and eventually mine uranium for domestic nuclear power were assessed by the group from the IAEA.

Currently, only about half of 50 million Ugandans have electricity. The government is aiming for 99% of the population to have access by 2030 and aiming for nuclear power generation by 2031.

The first ever Integrated Uranium Production Cycle Review mission, conducted with IAEA's support, evaluated the infrastructure needed.

The 82 participants were primarily from Uganda's Government, but also included experts from Argentina, Australia, France, Namibia and the IAEA. They reviewed 16 key aspects, including human resources and regulations, as well as recommended steps.

Several parts of the country have been identified as potentially uranium-rich, albeit with no proven resources. Further exploration will involve radiometric surveys and geochemical samples.

The team recommends Uganda develops skilled personnel for uranium exploration, and adequately funding a programme for this.