By Staff Writer
Government says it is ready to use nuclear science and technology for peaceful means to address some of the country’s challenges such as the ongoing drought which has affected the nation.
Technology and Science Permanent Secretary Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu says the integration of nuclear science and technology into national development strategies is vital in addressing some of the major challenges the world faces today.
Dr. Habeenzu says food insecurity and the spread of emerging diseases can be addressed by peaceful means of using nuclear science and technology.
Speaking when he addressed the 68th General Assembly of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna, Austria, Dr. Habeenzu said many of the challenges countries face are exacerbated by climate change which has led to extreme weather events like prolonged droughts and severe flooding.
Dr. Habeenzu said Zambia recognizes the many global challenges being tackled through nuclear science and technology.
“We commend the agency for its ongoing efforts to promote the peaceful applications of nuclear technology worldwide. In this regard, the Zambian government reaffirms its commitment to collaborate with the agency,” said Dr. Habeenzu.
Dr. Habeenzu said Zambia is implementing its second Cancer Control Strategic Plan on radiotherapy which was developed in 2022 to increase access to cancer treatment.
He also disclosed that the country has embarked on upgrading the current Cancer Diseases Hospital.
Dr. Habeenzu said the old equipment at the hospital has been decommissioned and currently, staff are reinstalling four advanced linear accelerators, two brachytherapy units and new diagnostic and simulation imaging technologies.
“I am pleased to announce that Zambia has been approved by the International Atomic Energy Agency as a second-wave country under the Rays of Hope Initiative. As a result, we will receive a linear accelerator for one of the new radiotherapy centers. With all these developments, Zambia shall continue to provide regional training in the fields of radiotherapy technology, radiology and radiation oncology,” said Dr. Habeenzu.
The Technology and Science Permanent Secretary also said a lot of work is being done in other sectors using nuclear science and technology.
“On fisheries and livestock, the Zambian government has identified the fisheries and livestock sectors as key drivers of economic growth and diversification. To this end, we are implementing a strategic plan aimed at enhancing production and productivity in these sectors using nuclear technology,” he said.
Dr. Habeenzu is accompanied to the IAEA General Assembly in Austria by Director Science and Technology in the Ministry of Technology and Science Dr. Larry Mweetwa, Radiation Protection Authority Executive Director Dr. Boster Siwila and National Institute of Science and Industrial Research Chief Executive Officer Dr. Henry Kambafwile.
