African countries are increasingly considering nuclear power to improve energy security as geopolitical tensions and fuel supply disruptions expose the continent’s dependence on imported energy. Industry experts say expanding nuclear generation could help address chronic electricity shortages affecting roughly 600 million Africans, but success will depend on workforce development, strong safety regulation, financing, and improved electricity grids. While South Africa remains the continent’s only operator of commercial nuclear reactors, Egypt is constructing four plants and several other countries—including Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, and Uganda—are pursuing nuclear ambitions. On funding, the International Energy Agency is advocating for concessional financing for the continent, especially since it only receives 3% of global energy investment. For countries with limited grid capacity, experts see Small Modular Reactors as a promising alternative.
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