Russia offers nuclear energy to Africa

Russia has proposed supplying electricity to African nations using floating nuclear power plants, claiming the technology can provide affordable energy. The offer was made by Alexei Likhachev, head of Rosatom, Russia’s nuclear energy agency, following the third Russia-Africa summit in Moscow.

Projects with four African countries

Russia is discussing concrete projects with Egypt, Tanzania, Togo, and Namibia, according to Likhachev. He stated that nine African countries have expressed strong interest in the technology, which several nations are trying to develop. These projects include uranium mining in Namibia and lithium extraction in Mali, with reserves estimated at over 4,000 tons.

Floating nuclear power plant in Russia

Russia currently operates the world’s only floating nuclear power plant, which has been moored in Chukotka since 2020. The country aims to build more of these plants to supply remote areas, including the Arctic. Likhachev noted that many African countries face high electricity costs and could benefit from this technology.

Energy pricing and African needs

Likhachev emphasized that floating nuclear power plants could offer African countries a stable energy source with prices less affected by external factors. He pointed out that 38 of the 54 African nations have access to the sea, making them potential candidates for such projects. This aligns with Russia’s broader strategy to expand its influence on the continent.

Russia’s growing influence in Africa

Russia has been increasing its economic and military presence in Africa for several years, especially as tensions with Western countries have risen. This includes deploying mercenaries and signing defense and economic agreements across the continent, further solidifying its strategic position.