Addis Ababa, December 10, 2025 (FMC) — The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reaffirmed its full support for Ethiopia’s nuclear development goals, emphasizing the potential of nuclear power to drive industrial growth, create high-skilled employment, and deliver reliable, low-carbon electricity.
In a video message delivered on the occasion of the high-level event launching the Ethiopian Nuclear Power Programme and marking the commencement of tasks by the newly established Ethiopian Nuclear Energy Commission (ENEC), IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi lauded Ethiopia’s efforts to establish a robust institutional framework for safe and secure nuclear development.
Grossi congratulated Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for his vision and leadership, and commended the Ethiopian government for establishing ENEC as the institutional backbone for developing and regulating nuclear power in line with international safety standards.
He said the initiative represents a major step toward ensuring that Ethiopia’s nuclear program is safe, secure, and capable of delivering socio-economic benefits.
“Nuclear power is a source of reliable low-carbon electricity and a catalyst for socio-economic development,” he added, noting that it also boosts industrial growth and high-skilled employment.
He emphasized the ongoing collaboration between Ethiopia and the IAEA through the agency’s technical cooperation program, which focuses on building human resources, strengthening institutions, and preparing for future infrastructure milestones.
Grossi also highlighted that a concurrent national workshop on ENEC’s roles and responsibilities marked the first technical activity specifically focused on the Commission, underscoring Ethiopia’s commitment to capacity-building and institutional readiness.
The IAEA chief encouraged Ethiopia to leverage regional and international opportunities, including initiatives under the African Regional Cooperative Agreement (AFRA) and programs exploring small modular reactors, which could accelerate the country’s nuclear ambitions.
He added that the IAEA offers a wide range of advisory and capacity-building services to support Ethiopia at every stage of its nuclear journey, including areas such as institutional readiness and stakeholder engagement.
He also referenced ongoing collaboration in health, including the expansion of radiotherapy and cancer care under the IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative, highlighting that the partnership extends beyond power generation to broader national development.
Grossi concluded by congratulating Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Commissioner Sandokan Debebe, and all stakeholders involved in establishing ENEC.
He said, “We are forging a bright future for Ethiopia, and the IAEA is there for you every step of the way.”
The high-level event in Addis Ababa, attended by senior government officials and international partners, underscored Ethiopia’s commitment to developing nuclear power as a pillar for future energy security, industrial transformation, and socio-economic development.