Addis Ababa, September 25, 2025 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed outlined Ethiopia’s ambitious plans for nuclear energy during his address at the World Atomic Week (WAW) forum in Moscow, Russia, emphasizing its role in driving sustainable development, innovation, and societal progress.
Speaking at the opening of the four-day international forum, PM Abiy thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin for the invitation and described the event as a global platform for science to foster a cleaner, more equitable future.
The Prime Minister highlighted Ethiopia’s rapid economic growth, modernizing cities, and dynamic youth population, stressing that the country’s ambitions demand reliable, low-emission, and scalable energy.
While hydropower, solar, and wind have supported the nation’s progress, he said nuclear energy represents a critical step to meet the needs of Ethiopia’s growing population and expanding industries.
“Nuclear technology provides reliable, low-emission power, strengthens food security, equips doctors, optimizes water management, and empowers our scientists to innovate,” PM Abiy said. “For Ethiopia, nuclear is not only about energy — it’s about people.”
He emphasized the strategic significance of nuclear power for Ethiopia’s broader technological and industrial ambitions, including artificial intelligence and innovation.
Citing the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a symbol of the country’s green energy leadership, PM Abiy highlighted Ethiopia’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Russia, combining expertise, workforce skills, and market opportunities to create a model of partnership for Africa.
PM Abiy affirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to developing nuclear energy safely, transparently, and in alignment with international standards. He noted strong support from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), including collaboration with Director-General Rafael Mariano Grossi, and outlined concrete steps already taken: establishing a nuclear science and technology center, developing regulatory frameworks, training personnel, and expanding peaceful applications of nuclear science.
Concluding his speech, PM Abiy stressed that Ethiopia seeks partnerships based on trust, knowledge, and mutual respect, and welcomed cooperation in technology transfer and safety training, calling for collective efforts to turn ambition into achievement and challenges into opportunities for Ethiopia’s development and sovereignty.