The Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA) and the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in the safe and secure regulation of nuclear and radiological activities for peaceful purposes.
The agreement establishes a framework for both institutions to share expertise, implement joint programmes, and address emerging regulatory challenges in support of their respective national nuclear agendas.
The MoU was signed in Accra by Professor Francis Otoo, Director-General of the NRA, on behalf of Ghana, and Ambassador Rosemary Mbabazi for Rwanda.
The partnership is expected to deepen African cooperation in nuclear and radiological regulation while promoting high standards of safety, security, and sustainable socio-economic development.
Professor Otoo described the agreement as the beginning of structured cooperation between the two countries in a critical sector, noting that Rwanda stands to benefit from Ghana’s experience in developing a robust regulatory framework for nuclear and radiological technologies.
Under the MoU, both institutions will collaborate in key areas including regulation of nuclear installations, safety and security oversight of radiological facilities, radioactive waste and spent fuel management, safeguards, and emergency preparedness and response.
The agreement also covers the peaceful application of nuclear science in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, mining, education, industry, and research.
In addition, the partnership will support training and capacity building initiatives, including dosimetry and calibration services, as well as the exchange of experts, fellows, and consultants between the two countries.
To ensure effective implementation, the two regulators will establish mechanisms such as joint working groups, expert exchanges, bilateral consultations, and technical workshops. Study visits and training programmes will also be organised to strengthen institutional capacity.
Both parties have also agreed to share official information and best regulatory practices, and to make their laboratories and technical facilities available for joint research and testing where necessary.
Ambassador Mbabazi noted that the agreement allows for the exchange of unclassified information such as laws, regulations, safety reports, and research materials, while maintaining strict confidentiality provisions.
She added that any information designated as confidential would remain protected even after the agreement expires or is terminated.
Each institution is expected to designate a coordinator to oversee implementation of the MoU, maintain communication, and develop action plans outlining specific activities, timelines, and resource commitments.
