Russia Ethiopia Sign Nuclear Plant Construction Agreement

Russia and Ethiopia have formalized an agreement to develop a nuclear power plant in Ethiopia, marking a significant step toward diversifying the country's energy sources beyond hydropower, solar, and wind. The pact, signed by Rosatom's CEO Aleksei Likhachev and Ethiopia's CEO of the Electric Company Ashebir Balcha, includes detailed planning, technical and economic roadmaps, staff training, and establishment of a Nuclear Science and Technology Center. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized the importance of nuclear technology for reliable, low-emission energy that supports food security, water management, healthcare, and scientific advancement, highlighting the nation's long-term development ambitions. Russian President Vladimir Putin assured that Russia would provide technology transfer while respecting Ethiopia's sovereignty and adhering to high safety standards. This initiative follows similar nuclear energy interests in Africa, with Niger planning reactors and Egypt constructing them, while South Africa currently operates the continent's only nuclear power plant. The collaboration also reflects ongoing Ethiopia-Russia relations and broader efforts to expand nuclear energy use responsibly, with support from the International Atomic Energy Agency.