Uganda has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Argentina's INVAP-SE, a leading nuclear technology firm. The agreement will foster the development of the Soroti University Center of Nuclear Science and Technology (CNST), which will focus on training, research, and education in nuclear science.
This collaboration underscores Uganda’s commitment to leveraging nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, particularly in the fields of agriculture, healthcare, and energy.
Irene Batebe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, emphasized the importance of this partnership, highlighting INVAP-SE's commitment to supporting Uganda's nuclear ambitions. "This pact lays a solid foundation for collaboration," Batebe stated. "Argentina's proven track record in exporting nuclear technology to countries like Algeria and Egypt speaks volumes about their expertise."
The MoU sets the stage for site assessments and technical investigations at Soroti University, where the CNST will be developed. The center is envisioned as a hub for nuclear research, education, and the production of radioisotopes for medical and agricultural applications.
Batebe noted that Uganda faces challenges like low agricultural productivity, rising cancer rates, and energy shortages, and the peaceful use of nuclear technology could help address these issues.
The partnership also aligns with Uganda's Energy Policy 2023, which aims to incorporate nuclear energy into the country’s socio-economic development.
Pablo Maximo Abbate, Argentina’s Vice President for Nuclear Affairs, stressed the importance of this collaboration for human resource development. "We encourage Soroti University to work closely with INVAP-SE in shaping the curriculum for the Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering and other related programs," Abbate said.
Batebe said efforts are also underway to amend Uganda's Atomic Energy Act of 2008 to create a robust regulatory framework for the safe advancement of nuclear technology, including power plants and research reactors.
Soroti University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Ikoja Odong, welcomed the Argentine delegation to Soroti District and expressed enthusiasm for the project. "Your presence signifies the government's commitment to pushing forward this groundbreaking initiative," Odong said.
