- Zimbabwe plans to develop nuclear power in collaboration with Russia to increase energy generation capacity to 4 GW by 2035.
- Experts highlight nuclear energy’s potential to boost Zimbabwe’s economy, attract foreign investment, and support its mining sector while providing a stable, carbon-free power source.
Zimbabwe plans to adopt nuclear power to solve its electricity shortages. The country aims to increase power generation to 4GW by 2035, up from the current 2.6GW.
Currently, South Africa is the only African nation using nuclear energy. The Koeberg Nuclear Power Station, near Cape Town, has operated for 40 years. Its two French-built reactors generate over 1,800MW of electricity. South Africa plans to expand its nuclear capacity with Russia’s assistance.
Zimbabwe’s Energy Minister, Edgar Moyo, confirmed a partnership with Russia to build small nuclear reactors. He announced that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will guide Zimbabwe through the development process.
Over the years, Russia has signed nuclear agreements with Egypt, Nigeria, and Burkina Faso. In 2021, Zimbabwe and Rosatom, Russia’s state nuclear corporation, agreed to cooperate on nuclear energy. Analysts believe Russia seeks to expand its influence in Africa’s energy sector.
Foreign policy expert Irina Tsukerman emphasised the benefits of nuclear energy. “Nuclear power can provide stable electricity to millions in Africa’s underserved regions. It ensures continuous power for industries and households,” she stated.
Experts highlight several advantages of nuclear power. Unlike solar and wind, nuclear energy delivers reliable baseload power. It also reduces carbon emissions, supporting Zimbabwe’s climate goals.
Dr Lisa Marshall and Dr Sola Talabi, both nuclear energy experts, noted nuclear power’s role in economic growth. “Advanced reactors can support mining operations with clean energy,” they stated. “Microreactors can provide stable power in remote locations.”
Zimbabwe’s mining industry relies on consistent energy. Microreactors could replace diesel generators, lowering costs and reducing pollution. They also support the sustainable extraction of critical minerals like lithium and cobalt.
Despite its ambitions, Zimbabwe faces financial challenges. The World Bank categorises Zimbabwe as a lower-middle-income country. The nation owes over $9 billion in debt, including $7 billion in arrears.
The U.S. lifted its Zimbabwe Sanctions Program in 2024 but still monitors companies under anti-corruption laws. Investors remain cautious due to economic instability and governance concerns.
Several African nations are exploring nuclear power. Ghana has partnered with U.S.-based Regnum Technology Group to deploy a NuScale small modular reactor (SMR). The project aims to establish Africa’s first commercial SMR plant.
Meanwhile, India is developing thorium-based reactors and increasing its presence in Africa’s energy market. China and Russia continue expanding their influence in the continent’s nuclear sector.
If successful, Zimbabwe’s nuclear project could transform its energy landscape. Reliable power would attract foreign investment, support industrial growth, and improve living conditions. However, to achieve long-term sustainability, financial and regulatory hurdles must be addressed.