INTERVIEW | As Uganda explores the possibility of nuclear energy to diversify its energy sources, Patricia Litho, the assistant commissioner for communications at the Ministry of Energy, provides insight into the country’s goals, progress, and efforts to address concerns surrounding nuclear energy.
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Why is Uganda considering nuclear energy when some countries are moving away from it?
While some countries have faced challenges with nuclear energy, Uganda benefits from advancements in technology that address earlier safety and environmental concerns. We are adopting nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, primarily to enhance electricity generation.
Nuclear power allows for large-scale electricity production, which is essential for Uganda’s growing economy. It is also a clean energy source, provided safety, environmental impact, and community proximity are managed effectively.
What progress has Uganda made so far?
Uganda is progressing steadily. The first nuclear project is planned for Buyende District. Before launching, we focused on building the capacity of our staff. Currently, we are conducting feasibility studies and have identified potential sites.
Over the past three years, we have actively engaged stakeholders to build understanding and support. We have also established the Soroti Nuclear Science Department at Soroti University, with a developing curriculum.
Soon, we will begin recruiting Ugandans to enter the nuclear sector, as human resource development is crucial for the success of this initiative.
How is the government ensuring public safety and community involvement?
Safety is our highest priority. The Atomic Energy Council regulates the sector, ensuring health and safety measures are adhered to. Public engagement is also critical to our approach. For instance, in November last year, we held a community meeting in Buyende, where we discussed our plans, explained the compensation process, and addressed concerns related to resettlement and impact radius.
Initially, we focused more on local leaders, but now we are prioritizing continuous, direct engagement with the communities that will be most affected.
What role do international experts play in Uganda’s nuclear ambitions?
We are not working in isolation. Experts from countries with established nuclear programs, such as Argentina, Germany, and the United States, are providing guidance. They share best practices, point out challenges, and help us avoid mistakes from earlier adopters. While Uganda’s context is unique, their experience and support are invaluable as we develop our own nuclear strategy.
How is the government handling public perception, especially fears associated with nuclear energy?
Public fears are understandable, given historical incidents like Hiroshima. However, modern nuclear energy is vastly different. We are committed to large-scale public awareness campaigns to demystify nuclear energy and engage various stakeholders, from community members to cultural leaders. For example, in Buyende, we consulted with kingdom leadership to gain their support, recognizing their influence in the community.
Our goal is to ensure that Ugandans understand nuclear energy, and recognize that when managed responsibly, it is both safe and beneficial.
What is your message to Ugandans about this project?
My message is simple: nuclear energy offers Uganda a significant opportunity. It is clean, efficient, and capable of reliably powering our industries and homes. While we must proceed cautiously and responsibly, with the right expertise and public engagement, Uganda can build a safer, more sustainable energy future for all.