By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
Kenya has taken another step
towards the responsible development of nuclear science and technology with the
International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Phase II Integrated Nuclear
Infrastructure Review for Research Reactors (INIR-RR) mission in Nairobi.
Principal Secretary for the
State Department for Science, Research and Innovation, Prof. Shaukat
Abdulrazak, said the proposed Kenya Nuclear Research Reactor would strengthen
the country’s research capabilities, develop highly skilled human capital and advance
the peaceful applications of nuclear technology in healthcare, agriculture,
industry and environmental studies.
Speaking during the review
mission, Abdulrazak said research infrastructure, technological advancement and
innovation were essential drivers of sustainable development as Kenya pursued
the aspirations of Kenya Vision 2030 and beyond.
He welcomed the IAEA’s
continued Technical Cooperation Programme and encouraged participating
institutions to engage constructively with the review, prioritising safety,
security, safeguards and long-term sustainability.
Abdulrazak said Kenya’s
ambition was to translate scientific knowledge into practical solutions that
improve lives, strengthen national capacity and accelerate the country’s
transition to a knowledge- and innovation-driven economy.
