Nuclear energy deemed to be harmful to society by some experts
Experts on energy issues have highlighted the effects of nuclear energy on Ghana’s economy and Africa in the future.
According to them, Africa does not need nuclear energy as this may lead to increasing debts, environmental impacts and looming energy crisis.
They intimated the disadvantages of nuclear energy are buried in the fine prints of its undertaking, which when overlooked will bite hard at Ghana.
Organisations from South Africa, Zambia, Russia, and Kenya, as well as others joining remotely, are in Ghana this week for a week-long solidarity engagement on the threats of nuclear energy proliferation in Africa.
“Africa does not need nuclear energy-it is neither safe, affordable, nor climate-smart,” they intimated.
Addressing a press conference on January 23, 2025, Alberta Kpeleku with civil society organisation leading the Ghana Anti-Nuclear Movement, 360 Human Rights, said “We are here to shed light on the often-overlooked consequences of nuclear energy, especially with reference to nuclear waste. From environmental disasters to health risks and economic concerns, it’s time to reevaluate our reliance on nuclear power.”
“The impacts on the environment include nuclear accidents, radioactive waste, and contamination. Health risks include cancer, genetic damage, kidney disease, and other related conditions caused by radiation exposure. Additionally, there are security threats, such as nuclear proliferation, terrorism, and cybersecurity risks,” she added.
Representing the Centre for Justice, Governance and Environmental Action, Kenya, Phyllis Omido, pledged their solidarity with Ghana in the fight against nuclear energy.
She said, “As part of Kenya’s anti-nuclear movement, we stand in solidarity with the newly born Ghana Anti-Nuclear Movement led by 360. We believe in African solutions to African problems. Nuclear energy translates to energy slavery for African people for generations to come. Renewable energy is freedom for our people.”
Meanwhile, renewable energy was been tipped as a better alternative for energy other than nuclear.
According to the groups, renewable energy has more localised employment opportunities as compared to nuclear energy where experts would have to be imported to man operations.
During the last decade, Ghanaian authorities were intensively discussing the construction of nuclear reactors with Russian Rosatom.
In 2015 a memorandum of understanding was signed between Ghana and the Russian state nuclear corporation. In 2023 Russia proposed to build a fleet of small nuclear reactors in Ghana.
Sessions focused on familiarisation and knowledge-sharing. Experiences from Ghana are being exchanged with other parts of the world, including Germany, Russia, South Africa, Kenya, and Zambia, emphasising access to information, the role of traditional and local authorities, and the strength of networks.
SSD/MA
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