South Africa at the forefront of BRICS nuclear collaboration

In a significant step towards enhancing collaborative efforts in nuclear energy, the inaugural expert panel of the BRICS Nuclear Platform convened recently in Beijing, China on the sidelines of the CIENPI — 2025 exhibition.

The session, entitled “Key Factors Impacting the Development of Nuclear Power,” gathered representatives from BRICS nations—China, Russia, Brazil, South Africa—and partner countries including Iran, alongside industry experts from organisations like the ASEAN Centre for Energy and the World Nuclear Association (WNA).

The discussion underscored the urgency of implementing practical solutions for the efficient deployment of nuclear energy while addressing emerging trends within the global industry.

Keynote speakers Elsie Pule, the Head Coordinator of the BRICS Nuclear Platform from South Africa, and Celso Cunha, President of the Brazilian Association for the Development of Nuclear Activities (ABDAN), emphasised the importance of nuclear power in achieving energy security and sustainable development goals.

“The BRICS Nuclear Platform provides a unique avenue for nations to share insights and strategies as we navigate the challenges and opportunities in the nuclear sector,” said Pule.

“Cooperation is essential, as emerging economies increasingly view nuclear energy as a viable option for achieving low-carbon growth.”

The panel also served as an invaluable opportunity for nuclear newcomer countries to connect with experienced players in the industry.

Representatives from various nations engaged in discussions about both energy and non-energy applications of nuclear technology, paving the way for future collaboration.

Chen Xin, Deputy Director of the Uranium Resources Department at China’s State Nuclear Uranium Resources Development Company (SNURDC), noted that young specialists require mentorship from established experts to foster innovation and development.

“Young specialists in the nuclear industry need the support of experienced experts from countries with advanced technologies.

The session provided an opportunity for representatives of BRICS nuclear organisations to establish interaction for the development of joint projects,” Xin stated, emphasising the critical role of mentorship in advancing nuclear technology.

As African countries express growing interest in nuclear power to support diversified energy solutions, South Africa active participation in the panel comes at a pivotal time.

The interest in nuclear collaboration extends beyond South Africa, with organisations from Egypt and Ethiopia indicating their support for the BRICS Nuclear Platform.

These developments suggest a shift in the perception of nuclear energy across the continent as a sustainable choice for future energy needs.

“The session once again confirmed that there is a large and as yet untapped potential for joint work between BRICS organisations and partners. We will continue to move forward and ‘take a step leaving a footprint’,” remarked Artem Goncharuk, Director General of Rosati East Asia.

He further announced that preparations for the next expert panel session, scheduled for May 21, 2025, in Brazil, are already underway.