Rwanda Atomic Energy Board (RAEB) and American microreactor technology company Nano Energy on Wednesday, August 14, signed an agreement on a nuclear energy development programme, which will facilitate the deployment of small modular and micro reactors as part of the country's efforts to increase energy sources.

Under the agreement signed in Kigali by RAEB CEO Dr Fidèle Ndahayo and Nano Energy CEO James Walker, the company will provide technical assistance, nuclear training, and education programs to increase the number of nuclear energy personnel in Rwanda, benefiting beyond the country introduction of advanced nuclear reactor systems.

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RAEB and Nano Energy agreed to develop additional measures to introduce technologies that can economically benefit the country, including modern nuclear infrastructure, officials said.

The agreement with Nano Nuclear "highlights Rwanda’s commitment to being a proof-of-concept destination as a strategy to accelerate the integration of innovative technologies and build a knowledge-based economy," said Ndahayo.

"Small Modular Reactor technologies are now being developed, and Rwanda wishes to be part of the development process. This will position us well to embrace the technology when it becomes available on the market.

"This is a valuable opportunity for education and training, resulting in technology transfer and innovation.”

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The cooperation aims to ensure robust ability to maintain a self-sustaining domestic nuclear energy industry, RAEB said.

The parties will also establish a business collaboration to secure the necessary capital for developing and sustaining a thriving nuclear industry.

"Our signed agreement marks the beginning of a much deeper and longer partnership to develop the enormous potential here in Rwanda," said Walker.

"By working with Rwanda and integrating our energy solutions here, we can further accelerate the country’s growth while improving the already rising quality of life."

"We aim to create a nuclear energy industry in Rwanda that not only serves the country but also has the potential to deploy its enterprise and products across the continent," he said.

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Following the agreement, Nano Energy, in partnership with the Cambridge Nuclear Energy Centre, will begin introducing educational and vocational opportunities for young Rwandans, in collaboration with Rwandan higher learning institutions, to build and maintain both SMRs and microreactors, as well as the supporting the country's nuclear energy infrastructure.

The company will also work closely with RAEB to develop licensing strategies for test reactors, nuclear infrastructure, and advanced reactor systems.