- Namibia is set to develop nuclear power to become energy self-sufficient and capitalize on its position as a leading uranium producer.
- Despite working on its first nuclear plant with Rosatom, Namibia needs a clear nuclear policy and significant investment to overcome challenges and enhance energy security.
Namibia has been urged to focus on nuclear energy to secure its future and enhance economic resilience. Despite being the third-largest uranium producer globally and Africa’s largest, Namibia relies heavily on imported electricity from South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.
This dependence hampers Namibia’s ability to capitalise on its uranium resources and highlights the need for a strategic shift towards nuclear power. Currently, Africa has only one operational nuclear facility, South Africa’s Koeberg Nuclear Power Station, which has two reactors.
In contrast, there are 440 operational nuclear reactors across 32 countries worldwide. Nuclear power, the second-largest source of low-carbon energy after hydropower, contributes about 28% of global low-carbon electricity. Given this context, Namibia has a strong case for developing its nuclear power capabilities, as seen in other countries with established nuclear industries.
However, Namibia faces several hurdles in advancing nuclear power. The country lacks a defined nuclear policy essential for developing a robust nuclear infrastructure. This includes establishing a fund for managing radioactive waste and creating policies for uranium enrichment and usage. Namibia’s National Development Plan currently does not address nuclear energy, and as the country prepares to introduce NDP6, it is crucial to outline clear goals and expectations for achieving Vision 2030.
Namibia’s power consumption of 750 megawatts falls short of the 1,000 megawatts typically required for a nuclear facility to be economically viable. The construction of smaller 300-megawatt plants could be considered to address immediate electricity needs.
Through its local arm, Headspring Investments, Russian nuclear giant Rosatom is already working on Namibia’s first nuclear power plant, although a formal nuclear policy is still absent.
Building a nuclear power plant in Namibia will involve significant investment, long-term planning, and overcoming complex challenges, including infrastructure development, technical capability, and public perception concerns. Additionally, the project will require careful financial management to avoid strain and ensure sustainability.
Investment in nuclear energy is vital for Namibia’s development, as inadequate energy security currently undermines national water and food security, deters investment, and hampers job creation. Prioritising nuclear energy, revising resource policies, and fostering international collaboration with experienced nuclear countries could significantly benefit Namibia’s economic growth and energy security.
Josef Kefas Sheehama, an experienced banking professional and independent economics researcher, advocates for a strategic focus on nuclear energy. His expertise and extensive background in banking and economics provide valuable insight into Namibia’s potential to achieve energy independence and economic development through nuclear power.