The annual AFRA (African Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development and Training related to Nuclear Science and Technology) meeting is a key regional platform aimed at fostering cooperation among African countries in the peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology. The 2025 meeting is being held under the theme, “Promoting Regional Cooperation in Nuclear Science and Technology”, which underscores the shared commitment of member states to harness nuclear innovation for socio-economic development.

 

This year’s meeting is of strategic importance as it aims to:

1). Evaluate the implementation status of AFRA projects across member countries;

2). Assess the regional impact of these projects with a focus on measurable contributions to national development goals;

3). Strengthen regional collaboration and partnerships in the application of nuclear technologies in areas such as health, agriculture, water resources, and energy;

4). Receive feedback and deliberate on action points from previous AFRA meetings, particularly outcomes since the 35th Technical Working Group Meeting.

 

Dr. Ekedegwa is joined at the meeting by Engr. Awwal Bisallah, Deputy Director at NAEC and the IAEA National Liaison Assistant for Nigeria. Nigeria’s participation highlights its proactive engagement with regional nuclear development frameworks and its commitment to utilizing nuclear science for national growth.

 

NAEC remains dedicated to ensuring that Nigeria maximizes the benefits of its membership in AFRA through active participation, technical collaboration, and sustained implementation of IAEA-supported initiatives.

 

The meeting is scheduled to end on 28th June 2025.