An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts finished an eight-day review of Ghana's infrastructure development for a nuclear power program on Monday, with some suggestions for further development.
The Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) was carried out at the invitation of the Government of Ghana.
The team made recommendations and suggestions aimed at assisting Ghana in making further progress in its nuclear power infrastructure development.
The INIR team, comprising international experts from Germany, Morocco, South Africa and the United Kingdom as well as IAEA staff, highlighted areas where further action would benefit Ghana, including, further assessment of its legal framework to ensure its adequacy for nuclear power. Preparation for the next phase of activities, including discussions with vendors and other potential partners.
Ghana, which has safely operated a nuclear research facility for 22 years, has significant experience with the non-power application of nuclear technology, including in the medical and industrial fields.
The School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences at the University of Ghana is an IAEA-designated center of excellence, offering postgraduate programs in nuclear engineering, nuclear physics, medical physics, radiation protection and nuclear and radiochemistry.
'Ghana is committed to the careful step-by-step development of its nuclear power program,' Benjamin Nyarko, director general of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission was quoted as saying.
'The gaps identified by the mission will be tackled in earnest to enable the country to make a knowledgeable decision in 2018, as per its roadmap for nuclear power development,' he added.
INIR is a holistic peer review to assist member states in assessing the status of their national infrastructure for the introduction of nuclear power. The review covers the comprehensive infrastructure required for developing a safe, secure and sustainable nuclear power program, according to the IAEA.
By Huseyin Erdogan
Anadolu Agency
huseyin.erdogan@aa.com.tr