A coalition of civil society groups has sounded the alarm over Africa’s growing interest in nuclear power, warning that it’s a costly distraction from real climate solutions. A new report, “The Alarming Rise of False Climate Solutions in Africa,” exposes nuclear expansion plans in 13 African countries, including Egypt, Kenya, Nigeria, and Uganda—despite major risks and limited benefits.
The report, released ahead of the Bonn Climate Conference, argues that nuclear energy is too slow, dangerous, and expensive to address Africa’s energy poverty. Instead, activists demand a just transition to renewables, citing the continent’s vast solar, wind, and hydro potential.
Here are amongst the key concerns:
- Safety & Security: Nigeria’s Philip Jakpor warns nuclear plants could become terrorist targets, requiring military-level protection.
- Economic Burden: Uganda’s Sam Mucunguzi says nuclear projects could consume a quarter of the national budget, deepening debt.
- Health & Environmental Risks: Ghana’s Alberta Kpeleku highlights radioactive waste and long-term contamination dangers.
- Geopolitical Exploitation: The report warns Africa is becoming a battleground for foreign nuclear lobbies, particularly from Russia and Western nations.
Activists argue that solar, wind, and geothermal are faster, safer, and more affordable. Phyllis Omido, a Kenyan Goldman Prize winner, calls nuclear energy “slavery for future generations” and urges investment in decentralized green energy.
With Africa already struggling to secure climate finance, critics say nuclear investments will divert funds from urgently needed renewable projects. The question remains: Will African governments listen—or risk locking the continent into a dangerous energy dead end?
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