KIGALI, Rwanda 

The inaugural Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa opened in Rwanda's capital Kigali on Monday, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, and global experts to explore the potential of small modular and microreactors in accelerating Africa’s energy transition.

Rwanda’s Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente said with rising energy demands and a global shift toward clean technology, the summit was a timely platform to explore how nuclear innovation can drive energy access, climate resilience, and sustainable development across the continent.

“One of the best solutions for Africa to achieve its development agenda is to urgently adopt nuclear energy for power generation and other industrial applications,” Ngirente said in opening remarks.

“The future of Africa’s energy landscape will continue to be driven by increasing energy demand and increasing population growth.”

Ngirente noted that with Africa’s population expected to exceed 3 billion people in about 40 years, the continent will potentially be the largest energy market globally, driven mainly by industrialization, artificial intelligence (AI) expansion, and urbanization.

Tanzania’s Deputy Prime Minister Doto Biteko said the outcomes from the summit will be instrumental in advancing the development of nuclear power on the continent.

About 600 million people and 10 million small businesses have no access to reliable electricity, a need that calls for increased capacity through various energy sources, including nuclear energy, he added.

Experts believe reliable power from small modular and microreactors can support critical sectors such as mining, manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture as well as power AI data centers.

Sama Bilbao, director general of the World Nuclear Association, emphasized the importance of abundant, affordable clean energy, adding that nuclear energy needs to be accelerated across Africa.

“The summit is a pivotal moment. We are convening to demonstrate Africa’s leadership, commitment, and capacity to shape a bold clean energy future—powered by innovation and focused on sustainable development for all,” said Lassina Zerbo, chairman of Rwanda’s Atomic Energy Board.

Zerbo called on African governments to demonstrate long-term commitment to nuclear energy by ensuring stability and consistency with clear guarantees to attract investors.

“Our goal must be to develop a united voice that articulates our needs and aspirations. The summit is an opportunity to deepen partnership, work on securing investment, and advocate for equitable access to nuclear technology. It is a chance to remind the world that Africa’s energy future is a matter of global importance,” he added.

The Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa is firmly anchored in Africa’s development priorities, organizers said, emphasizing the peaceful use of nuclear energy to advance innovation, boost energy security and support inclusive growth—independent of external geopolitical agendas.