An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts has concluded a two-week International Physical Protection Advisory Service (IPPAS) mission in Rwanda, lauding the country’s efforts to enhance its nuclear security regime.

The mission was also the first IPPAS mission to Rwanda.

Hosted by the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), the six-person mission team reviewed Rwanda’s nuclear security regime for radioactive material, associated facilities, and activities.

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As part of the review, the IPPAS team visited Gisagara Thermal Power Station, which utilizes radioactive sources to measure the level and consistency of peat fuel, in the Southern Province.

The team also visited the Rwanda Cancer Center, which is setting up its first brachytherapy unit, at the Kanombe Military Hospital in Kigali.

Elena Buglova, Director of the IAEA Division of Nuclear Security, commended Rwanda’s ongoing effort to ensure that critical infrastructure and nuclear and other radioactive materials used in the county are secure.

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"The findings of the IPPAS mission in Rwanda will further contribute to the establishment of a robust nuclear security regime in the country.”

The IPPAS team, led by Simon Vleugels of the Authority for Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection in the Netherlands, included experts from Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, and Uganda.

The team held discussions with senior government officials while in Rwanda.

Rwanda accepted the 2005 Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (CPPNM) in 2021.

This Amendment significantly enhances the original CPPNM by broadening its scope and establishing obligations for Parties to ensure the physical protection of all nuclear facilities and nuclear material used for peaceful purposes, whether in domestic use, storage, or transport.

"As Rwanda embarks on the path toward expanding its use of nuclear technology, particularly in healthcare and energy sectors, there is a huge need to strengthen its regulatory framework and build a robust infrastructure for nuclear security that will protect both our people and our environment,” said Evariste Rugigana, Director General of RURA.

Earlier this year, the Rwanda Atomic Energy Board signed a memorandum of understanding for the deployment of small modular reactors.

"This IPPAS mission will be crucial in ensuring that the highest levels of security are maintained. The mission also reflects our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of nuclear materials and facilities in our country by working closely with international experts. Our collaboration with the IAEA through IPPAS will help us adopt best practices and enhance our readiness to respond to any security challenges,” he added.