The Republic of Mali has commenced negotiations with Russia to establish the country’s first Russian-designed nuclear power plant. This significant step aims to enhance Mali’s energy sector and includes plans for personnel development cooperation with Russia.
Mali’s transitional President, Assimi Goïta, recently met with representatives from Rosatom, Russia’s state nuclear corporation, to discuss the prospects of nuclear energy development in Mali. During the meeting, Nikolay Spassky, Rosatom’s Deputy Director-General for International Relations, updated the President on the progress of key cooperative projects already underway in the country.
Energy News Africa reports that the Malian government’s negotiation team, led by Minister for Economy and Finance Alousséni Sanou, explored various collaborative projects with Russia. These included initiatives in solar energy generation and geological exploration, focusing on launching a strategic project to construct a low-power nuclear power plant designed by Russia.
As a result of these discussions, three memoranda of understanding were signed. Bintou Camara, Mali’s Minister of Energy and Water Resources, signed documents on nuclear infrastructure development and fostering a positive public opinion towards nuclear energy.
Additionally, Bourema Kansaye, Mali’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, signed a memorandum on cooperation in personnel training.
The parties agreed to maintain close contact and periodically coordinate as the joint projects progress. This cooperation between Mali and Rosatom is a potential milestone towards creating a sustainable energy future in Africa.
According to the International Energy Agency, approximately 43% of Africa’s population, or about 600 million people, still lack electricity access, highlighting such initiatives’ importance.
