Ethiopia and UNDP align on strategic cooperation for peaceful nuclear energy program

Addis Ababa, March 28, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have aligned on strategic cooperation to advance the country’s peaceful nuclear energy program.

The understanding was reached during a high-level meeting between Ethiopian Nuclear Energy Commission (ENEC) Chief Commissioner Sandokan Debebe and UNDP Resident Representative Samuel Gbaydee Doe, held at the Commission’s office.

The discussions focused on shaping strategic frameworks to support Ethiopia’s nuclear energy ambitions for peaceful purposes.

Sandokan Debebe emphasized that Ethiopia’s rapidly expanding economy requires a reliable and sustainable power supply, describing it as a national priority.

He highlighted the critical role of nuclear energy in providing long-term support to key sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, research, and technology, as well as its contribution to achieving the “Digital Ethiopia 2030” vision.

Samuel Gbaydee Doe outlined UNDP’s ongoing work in innovation, climate action, green economy, and clean energy solutions.

He reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to collaborating with Ethiopia in areas such as policy formulation, public awareness, stakeholder engagement, and comprehensive capacity-building programs.

Both sides stressed the importance of adapting international best practices to Ethiopia’s social, cultural, and developmental context to encourage public participation and ensure the long-term sustainability of the program.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen cooperation through knowledge exchange and international collaboration, reinforcing efforts to secure a sustainable energy future for Ethiopia.