- KHNP has signed a memorandum of understanding with the NAEC to expand nuclear cooperation in Africa.
- Nuclear energy offers a promising alternative for achieving energy security while supporting economic growth.
Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power KHNP has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) to expand nuclear cooperation in Africa.
The agreement, formalised at the 2025 African Nuclear Industry Business Forum held in Rabat, Morocco, on April 23, aims to foster cooperation between South Korea and Nigeria in various nuclear fields.
These include nuclear manpower training, nuclear power plant development, and resource procurement related to nuclear energy projects. A KHNP official emphasised that this MOU is expected to be a stepping stone for new nuclear power plant exports to Africa.
The forum, which began with KHNP President Hwang Joo-ho’s keynote speech, provided KHNP with an opportunity to showcase its advanced nuclear technologies, including the APR-1400 reactor and the innovative small modular reactor (i-SMR). Both technologies garnered considerable interest from attending African nations.
Hwang highlighted the growing interest from African countries with significant growth potential in collaborating with Korea on nuclear projects.
“We will do our best to achieve good results in the African market based on Korea’s nuclear power plant development experience,” he stated.
The event was attended by over 200 participants, including energy ministers and chairpersons of nuclear commissions from 17 African countries, such as Morocco, Ghana, Uganda, and Kenya.
According to KHNP, in addition to Nigeria, countries such as Egypt, Ghana, South Africa, Uganda, and Zambia are considering the construction of new nuclear power plants to ensure stable power supply and achieve energy independence.
Many African nations face an insufficient electricity supply and heavy reliance on fossil fuels, while also possessing significant growth potential.
Nuclear energy offers a promising alternative for achieving energy security while supporting economic growth. South Africa remains the only African nation with an operational nuclear power plant; however, other countries are now exploring this avenue for development.
Korea’s robust nuclear industry positions it as a competitive player in this emerging market. The APR-1400 reactor is renowned for its advanced safety features and efficiency, while the i-SMR offers advantages such as reduced initial capital investment and scalability.
International cooperation is crucial for developing nuclear projects due to their complex technological requirements and stringent regulatory frameworks.
As KHNP strengthens ties with Nigeria through this MOU, it sets a precedent for future collaborations across Africa. With stable political environments and stronger economies being more conducive to successful implementation, there is optimism about Africa’s potential as a burgeoning market for nuclear energy solutions.