The Ministry of Energy has begun taking initial steps to implement President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s directive to introduce nuclear energy as part of Tanzania’s long-term plan for electricity generation.
The announcement came after a high-level working meeting chaired by Dr. Khatibu Kazungu, the Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy, held at the Ministry’s branch office in Dar es Salaam. The meeting brought together senior officials from the Ministry, leaders of institutions under the Ministry of Energy, representatives from regulatory bodies, and experts in the energy and environmental sectors.
Dr. Kazungu stated that the Ministry had reviewed the implementation stages for the national nuclear energy programme. This comes in direct response to President Samia’s instruction delivered on June 27, 2025, during the conclusion of the parliamentary sessions, calling for safe and sustainable use of nuclear power in the country’s energy mix.
“The Ministry of Energy will continue to oversee the establishment of the nuclear energy program to ensure that our country secures a safe and sustainable source of energy,” said Dr. Kazungu. He emphasized the need for collaboration with other institutions and stakeholders, assuring that all steps would be taken carefully and in line with international safety standards.
In a key directive, Dr. Kazungu instructed the National Committee tasked with overseeing the nuclear project to begin drafting a National Roadmap. The roadmap will detail the critical steps necessary to roll out the nuclear energy programme from the initial phase through to 2050.
The outlined stages include:
Feasibility studies on Tanzania’s uranium resources
Policy and legal reviews to prepare the regulatory framework
Public awareness campaigns to inform citizens about nuclear energy
Investment policies to attract both local and international stakeholders
Ensuring compliance with global nuclear safety protocols
In his remarks, Engineer Innocent Luoga, Commissioner for Electricity and Renewable Energy, underlined the importance of public education in ensuring the success of the initiative.
“We must invest in knowledge and awareness so that citizens understand that nuclear energy is not a threat but an opportunity,” said Luoga. He added that effective education will help build public confidence in nuclear energy and promote transparent dialogue about its potential and safety.
The government’s move marks a significant shift in Tanzania’s energy strategy, signalling a commitment to diversifying electricity sources beyond hydropower, natural gas, and renewables. Nuclear energy is being positioned as a reliable, low-carbon alternative capable of supporting the country’s growing energy demands, while also contributing to environmental sustainability and economic development.
The push for nuclear energy also aligns with Tanzania’s Vision 2050, which aims to industrialize the nation, expand access to electricity, and increase energy security. Experts argue that integrating nuclear into the power mix could provide the baseload energy required to support large-scale manufacturing, digital infrastructure, and sustainable urban growth.
President Samia’s directive has been widely viewed as a bold step forward in modernizing Tanzania’s energy infrastructure. With increasing concerns about climate change, energy reliability, and access in rural areas, the government sees nuclear technology as a strategic investment in the future.
The Ministry of Energy is expected to engage international partners, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to ensure that all planning, development, and safety measures meet global best practices.
Stakeholders have welcomed the move but stressed the need for transparency, inclusion of civil society, and rigorous risk assessments to avoid the pitfalls experienced in other countries.
As Tanzania enters a new chapter in energy development, public and institutional support will be critical in making nuclear power a success story for the nation.
