World
Russia’s Rosatom to Offer Africa Floating Nuclear Technology
By Kestér Kenn Klomegâh
State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom, participating in African Energy Week 2025 (AEW 2025) in South Africa, in early October 2025, engaged Africa energy experts, entrepreneurs and politicians on the adoption of floating nuclear plants, while underscoring its enduring commitment to forging long-term partnerships and delivering effective energy solutions across the African continent.
Recent survey indicated that African countries are showing increasing interest in nuclear energy, including advanced technologies such as Russian floating power units (FPUs). The leaders embrace nuclear power as a solution to persistent energy crisis which challenges development in an era of this global change. The leaders express sentiments over nuclear energy as the right investment to help most African countries achieve 100 percent electrification, and also as the driver of changing the livelihood of the people.
On records, the Director General of the State Corporation Rosatom, A.E. Likhachev, and many senior officials, unreservedly mentioned Russia’s preparedness to provide its nuclear technology, train specialists, establish research facilities for African countries. In July 2023, for instance, was the most recent guarantee given by Vladimir Putin. He indicated, in his speech, that Russian companies are implementing new mutually beneficial projects to meet the growing demands of Africans for fuel and electricity generation capacity. And that this collaboration would provide Africa with access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and environmentally-friendly sources.
Undoubtedly, Likhachev Alexey, Director General of the State Atomic Energy Corporation, Rosatom, reiterated that Russia is currently involved in developing about 30 energy projects in 16 African countries. Russian energy companies offer a wide range of services to African partners – from the design and supply of equipment to the modernization and construction of new turnkey generation facilities.
In terms of financing nuclear energy, Kelvin Kemm, a nuclear physicist and former chairman of the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA), and current Chairman of Stratek Global, a nuclear project management company based in Pretoria, South Africa, says many leaders are now seeing a steady visible movement towards nuclear power across the globe. This movement is accelerating. This is particularly true of African countries who more and more are realising that Small Modular Reactors are their path to prosperity. Small Modular Reactor should be pursued with vigour.
South African Kelvin Kemm, however, argues that an energy mix should be implemented such that it is effective from an engineering perspective, and is also economically genuinely productive. Africa is now advancing the nuclear agenda not only by announcing the planned building of a new large nuclear power station, but also by supporting the introduction of Small Modular Reactors.
Vladimir Aptekarev, Deputy Director General of Floating Energy Solutions at Rosatom Mechanical Engineering, told the local Russian media that “African countries’ interest in nuclear technologies is growing, and many countries on the continent are beginning to integrate nuclear energy into their national plans. There is a growing understanding that nuclear energy is not just an energy supplier, but also a driver of socioeconomic development and economic scalability, new jobs, and decarbonization as part of the environmental agenda.”
With fully operational floating power units, there have been serious substantive negotiations with a number of African countries regarding the supply of electricity from floating power units. This was noted at the prominent gathering which convened over 5,000 distinguished representatives from government, investment communities, and senior energy sector professionals, fostering critical dialogue on innovative strategies to ensure Africa’s energy security and ultimate sustainable growth.
In addition, Kirill Komarov, First Deputy Director General for Corporate Development and International Business of Rosatom, in a high-profile panel discussion entitled “Nuclear Energy in Africa: Financing, Economics, and Sustainable Deployment” underlined the sector’s challenges, including infrastructure development, regulatory environments, and financing mechanisms. Experts exchanged insights on mobilizing investments and securing the sustainable advancement of nuclear projects throughout the continent.
Komarov emphasized that Africa’s burgeoning energy needs pioneering solutions underpinned by steadfast, long-term collaboration. Egypt’s experience serves as compelling evidence that nuclear technology, when coupled with investments in human capital, infrastructure, and transparent engagement, can significantly bolster national energy security and propel sustainable development. Rosatom is, therefore, honoured to collaborate closely with African partners to cultivate a balanced and sustainable energy framework, share deep expertise, and help build a resilient, low-carbon economy for future generations.
Vladimir Aptekarev, Deputy Director General for Floating Power Energy Solutions, Rosatom, contributed to the Russia–Africa Energy Summit which explored strategic cooperation between Russia and African nations across the oil, gas, and nuclear sectors. The session focused on opportunities for technology transfer, infrastructure development, and deepening economic ties — particularly in the context of Africa’s growing energy demand and the significance of reliable, sustainable solutions such as nuclear power.
Rosatom’s presence at AEW 2025 coincided with the momentous celebration of the 80th anniversary of the Russian nuclear industry — a milestone commemorating eight decades of technological excellence and groundbreaking innovation in nuclear energy. This historic occasion was celebrated during the Global Atomic Week, held in Moscow from 25 to 28 September 2025, an event that united industry visionaries and pioneers in a shared commitment to strengthening international cooperation and fostering the development of safe, reliable nuclear technologies worldwide.
For reference: African Energy Week (AEW) is an esteemed annual forum organised by the African Energy Chamber, which convenes Africa’s foremost energy leaders, global investors, and senior executives from both public and private sectors. Over an intensive four-day programme, participants engage in forward-looking discussions aimed at shaping the future of Africa’s energy landscape.
Founded in 2021, AEW serves as a premier platform combining conferences, exhibitions, and networking opportunities with the ambitious goal of eradicating electricity deficits across Africa by 2030. The agenda features expert panels, investor forums, industry summits, and transformative sessions designed to chart a sustainable energy trajectory for the continent.
The World Atomic Week (WAW 2025), dedicated to marking the 80th anniversary of Russia’s nuclear industry, took place from 25 to 28 September 2025 at VDNH in Moscow. Russia maintains an active and expanding collaboration with all interested nations. Significant international projects are being implemented, with Rosatom and its subsidiaries playing a pivotal and leading role in these global initiatives.
By Adedapo Adesanya
Nigerian businessman, Mr Aliko Dangote, has finalised plans to invest as much as $1 billion in Zimbabwe. This would be used to build cement and power plants as well as a fuel pipeline in the country.
The industrialist disclosed this during a meeting with the President of Zimbabwe, Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa, in Harare on Wednesday.
Mr Dangote had previously expressed interest in investing in Zimbabwe in 2015 but the deals stalled.
The Nigerian, who operates cement companies in 10 countries, planned to build a $400 million cement plant with processing capacity of 1.5 million tons a year. The deal, along with others proposed at the time, failed to materialize after talks with then-President Robert Mugabe.
Now, with the green light from the late president’s predecessor, Mr Dangote is adding Zimbabwe to his list of investment destinations, which span several countries across the continent from Ethiopia to Zambia.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Mr Dangote lauded the Zimbabwe leader for turning “the economy around,” adding, “That really gave us the confidence that this is the right time for us to come and invest.”
Mr Dangote has diversified interests in cement, sugar, fertiliser, oil and gas, and other sectors. He has a net worth of $29.8 billion, according to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index.
According to reports, details around mining concessions, tax incentives, and investment guarantees, we’re discussed between the tycoon and the Zimbabwean leader.
The deal, which has been in the works for several months, picked up pace during the Afreximbank annual meetings held in Abuja in June.
In June, both sides managed to resolve key sticking points and outline the next steps toward implementation.
Harare-based Bard Santner Markets Incorporated facilitated the negotiations, led by CEO Senziwani Sikhosana and investment facilitator Josephine Mahachi.
On the government side, presidential investment adviser, Mr Paul Tungwarara was credited with steering the process, ensuring that all policy and regulatory approvals stay on track.
Dangote Cement Plc is Africa’s largest cement producer and has production capacity of over 50 million tonnes annually across multiple countries.
By Kestér Kenn Klomegâh
November 2025, will go down in history as a significant date for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Free University of Kinshasa (ULK). During the official ceremony presenting state awards and prizes of the President of the Russian Federation in the Kremlin, Medar Bompoko Boquete, Chairman of the Executive Board of the Free University of Kinshasa (ULK), was awarded the Pushkin Medal, becoming the first Congolese to receive this prestigious award.
The Pushkin Medal, established in the Russian Federation, is one of the most renowned awards in the fields of culture, education, and the humanities. It is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the development of cultural and educational ties with Russia, as well as to strengthening friendship and international cooperation. This award highlights the importance of academic, linguistic, and cultural exchanges in strengthening ties between Russia and African countries.
Medar Bompoko Boquete was recognized for his contribution to the promotion of the Russian language and culture at ULK, as well as for his active work in strengthening educational and cultural ties between the DR Congo and Russia. For several years, he has promoted student and faculty exchanges, scientific cooperation, and knowledge sharing between the countries, contributing to the international recognition of the DR Congo.
The ceremony, held as part of the National Unity Day celebrations, brought together distinguished Russian and international representatives. The awarding of the Pushkin Medal to an African scholar, and in particular the first Congolese, is a powerful symbol of intercultural dialogue and mutual respect between countries. It also demonstrates the key role of education and culture in strengthening diplomatic and social ties on the international stage.
Award Details:
Awardee: Medar Bompoko Boquete
Position: Chairman of the Executive Board, Free University of Kinshasa (ULK)
Award: Pushkin Medal
Reason for the Award: Contribution to strengthening cultural and educational unity and developing cultural ties between the DR Congo and Russia
Award Location: The Kremlin, Moscow, Russia
This official recognition from Russia is not only a personal honor for Medar Bompoko Boquete but also an important symbol for the DR Congo, demonstrating the country’s achievements in education, culture, and scientific cooperation. The award opens new opportunities for academic and cultural interaction between Congolese and Russian institutions and inspires future generations to develop similar initiatives.
The awarding of the Pushkin Medal to Medar Bompoko Boquete was a historic event in relations between the DR Congo and Russia and symbolizes the long-term strengthening of cultural and educational ties between the two countries.
By Adedapo Adesanya
Human rights group, Amnesty International, has called for restoration of internet services following shutdown by Tanzanian authorities following the country’s general elections on October 29.
Authorities imposed nationwide internet restrictions on election day disrupting mobile data services and blocking access to social media platforms across major networks.
The October 29 vote handed President Samia Suluhu Hassan a second term with over 97 per cent of the votes.
She was sworn in after the disputed polls on Monday. Protests have since rocked the East African country.
On Monday November 3, Tanzanians reported partial resumption in some cities, but this has impacted the country’s economy, disrupting bank operations and communication.
In a statement, Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for East and Southern Africa, Mr Vongai Chikwanda, called for the return of full internet services in the country.
“For close to a week now, many people in Tanzania have suffered nationwide internet and electricity shutdowns. Amnesty International is particularly alarmed by reports that amidst the blackouts, security forces have used excessive force to suppress and disperse ongoing post-election protests, resulting in the deaths and injuries of protesters.
“This is the third time in less than a year that Tanzanian authorities have resorted to an internet blockade to silence dissenting voices. Authorities must immediately refrain from suppressing protests and instead respect, protect, and facilitate the right to peaceful assembly. They must immediately and unconditionally release all those arrested solely for exercising their right to peaceful assembly.”
So far, over 700 people have been reportedly killed by post-election violence in the East African nation.
The group said Tanzanian authorities should “promptly, thoroughly, independently, impartially, transparently and effectively investigate all killings by security agents and bring to justice in fair trials those suspected of being responsible.”
“Authorities must also provide victims and their families with access to justice and effective remedies,” it added.
“The authorities must also allow both local and international media to freely report on the human rights situation in the country and refrain from restricting access to information, both online and offline including by immediately restoring internet access and access to basic public services. The ongoing restrictions are making it difficult to verify information, and to document election-related human rights violations.”
-
Feature/OPED6 years agoDavos was Different this year
-
Travel/Tourism9 years ago
Lagos Seals Western Lodge Hotel In Ikorodu
-
Showbiz3 years agoEstranged Lover Releases Videos of Empress Njamah Bathing
-
Banking7 years agoSort Codes of GTBank Branches in Nigeria
-
Economy2 years agoSubsidy Removal: CNG at N130 Per Litre Cheaper Than Petrol—IPMAN
-
Banking3 years agoFirst Bank Announces Planned Downtime
-
Sports3 years agoHighest Paid Nigerian Footballer – How Much Do Nigerian Footballers Earn
-
Banking3 years agoSort Codes of UBA Branches in Nigeria