The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has successfully concluded an International Physical Protection Advisory Service (IPPAS) mission in Zimbabwe, marking a milestone in the nation’s commitment to nuclear security. The mission, conducted from 18 to 29 November 2024, came at the request of the Government of Zimbabwe and was hosted by the Radiation Protection Authority of Zimbabwe (RPAZ).
Zimbabwe’s use of nuclear science and technology spans various sectors, including health, industry, mining, agriculture, education, and research. With the country’s ratification of the Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (A/CPPNM) in 2023, the IPPAS mission represents a timely step toward enhancing Zimbabwe’s nuclear security framework.
Scope of the Mission
The seven-member IPPAS team, led by Kouame Remi Adjoumani from Côte d’Ivoire, included experts from Canada, Egypt, Türkiye, the United States, Zambia, and the IAEA. The mission reviewed Zimbabwe’s nuclear security regime for radioactive material and associated facilities, assessing the implementation of the A/CPPNM.
Key aspects of the mission included:
- Reviewing the legislative and regulatory framework for the security of radioactive material.
- Evaluating regulatory practices in licensing, inspection, and enforcement.
- Analyzing stakeholder coordination in nuclear security.
Site visits included the Radiotherapy Centre at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare, the radioactive waste management facility of RPAZ, Bindura Nickel Corporation, and Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo.
Findings and Recommendations
The IPPAS team noted Zimbabwe’s ongoing efforts to establish a robust nuclear security regime. They provided actionable recommendations and suggestions to support the country in enhancing and sustaining its nuclear security framework. Good practices identified during the mission are expected to serve as models for other IAEA Member States.
Elena Buglova, Director of the IAEA Division of Nuclear Security, emphasized the significance of this inaugural mission, stating, “The completion of the first IPPAS mission in Zimbabwe signals the start of a new phase for nuclear security in the country. The implementation of the mission findings will drive improvements, strengthening various aspects of the national nuclear security regime.”
Commitment to Improvement
Justice Chipuru, CEO of RPAZ, highlighted Zimbabwe’s dedication to global nuclear security. “This mission presents a significant milestone in our efforts to strengthen the national nuclear security framework. We are committed to implementing the recommendations to ensure the security of radioactive sources and to fostering continued cooperation with the IAEA.”
A Regional Milestone
The mission, the 107th of its kind since the IPPAS programme began in 1995, underscores Zimbabwe’s leadership in nuclear security within the region. It also reflects a growing trend among African nations to enhance their nuclear security infrastructure in alignment with international standards.
As Zimbabwe embarks on the next phase of its nuclear security journey, its collaboration with the IAEA and international experts provides a foundation for sustained growth and regional leadership in the peaceful and secure application of nuclear technologies.
This development is a testament to the importance of international cooperation in addressing global nuclear security challenges and the pivotal role of African nations in shaping the future of nuclear safety and security.
About IPPAS
Since its inception, the IPPAS programme has provided peer advice to countries worldwide, assisting them in aligning their nuclear security frameworks with international good practices. Zimbabwe’s participation further demonstrates the value of the programme in strengthening global nuclear security.
