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Zambia has been approved by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) as a second-wave country under the Rays of Hope Initiative, according to Ministry of Technology and Science Permanent Secretary Dr Brilliant Habeenzu.
As part of this initiative, Zambia would receive a linear accelerator for one of its new radiotherapy centers.
Habeenzu made the announcement during the 68th General Assembly of the IAEA in Vienna, Austria.
In a statement issued in Lusaka on Thursday, he highlighted that Zambia was set to continue providing regional training in radiotherapy technology, radiology, and radiation oncology.
“Zambia is ready to utilise nuclear science and technology for peaceful purposes, addressing challenges such as the ongoing drought,” Habeenzu stated, emphasizing the importance of integrating nuclear science into national development strategies.
He noted that many global challenges, including those exacerbated by climate change, such as prolonged droughts and severe flooding, could be mitigated using nuclear technology.
Food insecurity and the spread of emerging diseases are areas where peaceful nuclear applications can make a difference.
“Zambia recognises the global challenges being addressed through nuclear science and we commend the IAEA for promoting its peaceful applications. The Zambian government remains committed to collaborating with the agency,” Habeenzu said.
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He also revealed that Zambia was implementing its second Cancer Control Strategic Plan, developed in 2022, to expand access to cancer treatment.
The country is currently upgrading its Cancer Diseases Hospital, decommissioning old equipment and installing four advanced linear accelerators, two brachytherapy units and new diagnostic and simulation imaging technologies.
Additionally, Habeenzu stated that Zambia’s government had identified the fisheries and livestock sectors as key drivers of economic growth.
A strategic plan is being implemented to enhance production and productivity in these sectors through the use of nuclear technology.
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