Africa’s electricity demand is projected to grow nearly sevenfold by 2050, according to the latest International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) projections. As countries seek reliable and low-carbon power sources to fuel this growth, nuclear energy is back on the agenda—not just in its traditional form, but also through emerging technologies like Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) that promise more flexible, affordable, and safer deployment.
But which African countries are actually on track to go nuclear? This 2025 snapshot highlights the leaders, contenders, and long-term aspirants based on new analysis from the Energy for Growth Hub and Third Way.
Egypt
Egypt leads the pack with the continent’s most advanced nuclear project. The El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant, featuring four reactors totaling 4.8 GW, is under construction and expected to be completed by 2028. The $28 billion project is financed 85% by a Russian state loan through Rosatom. While Egypt hasn’t formally explored SMRs, its large-scale deployment places it at the forefront of nuclear development in Africa.
South Africa
South Africa remains the only African country with a commercial nuclear power plant, Koeberg. In 2024, the government paused a 2.5 GW new build program to allow for further public consultation. Yet momentum continues: In 2025, South Africa signed agreements with both local and Chinese partners to revive its Pebble Bed Modular Reactor (PBMR) program and develop SMRs, seen as ideal for replacing aging coal plants, especially in water-stressed areas.
Potentially Ready by 2030: The Rising Contenders
Ghana
Ghana currently operates a research reactor and plans to commission its first nuclear power plant by the early 2030s. In 2024, it signed non-binding agreements with U.S.-based NuScale (for SMRs) and China’s CNNC (for a large reactor). Ghana also participates in the U.S.-led FIRST program, which helps build infrastructure and supply chains for responsible SMR deployment.
Uganda
Uganda has announced plans to build a nuclear plant at Buyende, backed by China’s CNNC. While early in the process, this signals growing state-level commitment to nuclear as part of Uganda’s long-term energy mix.
Morocco
Morocco, which operates a research reactor, has broadened its nuclear cooperation through deals with Russia, China, and France. A 2024 agreement with France includes plans to build an experimental reactor and explore SMR options, positioning Morocco as a serious contender in the next wave of nuclear energy development.
Kenya
Kenya aims to commission its first plant by 2034. Its Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) says construction could begin as early as 2027. A 2025 MoU with CNNC opens up avenues for knowledge exchange, while Kenya actively studies financial models and project structuring for 100–300 MW SMRs.
Algeria
Algeria has operated two research reactors since the 1980s and 1990s with help from Argentina and China. A 2024 roadmap with Russia focuses on nuclear medicine and energy, though there are no confirmed power plant construction plans yet.
Tunisia
Tunisia had earlier ambitions to commission a nuclear plant by 2020, but little progress has been made. Despite past agreements with Russia, no visible developments have occurred, placing Tunisia in the “wait-and-see” category.
Potentially Ready by 2050: The Long-Term Prospects
Rwanda
Rwanda is actively exploring SMRs and microreactors through partnerships with U.S.-based NANO Nuclear Energy and Canada’s Dual Fluid Energy. A demonstration reactor could shift timelines, but the current lack of physical progress and regulatory infrastructure keeps Rwanda in the long-term tier.
Another dozen African countries have made initial moves—such as feasibility studies or international cooperation agreements—but will require significant action to be considered ready before 2050.
Countries Not Ranked: Political or Strategic Uncertainty
- Nigeria: Its high-profile Geregu project with Rosatom has stalled, but Nigeria remains engaged with FIRST and other U.S. programs.
- Sudan and Mali: Both have signed nuclear cooperation deals with China and Russia but face political and logistical roadblocks.
- Burkina Faso: Publicized its cooperation with Rosatom, yet practical implementation appears distant.
Notable Trends in Africa’s Nuclear Landscape
1. Russia’s Expanding Nuclear Footprint
Russia’s state-owned Rosatom has signed agreements with over 20 African countries, including Namibia, Niger, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, and Burundi. While many of these deals are in their early stages, Russia is clearly leading the nuclear diplomacy race on the continent. This creates a challenge for countries like the U.S., which risk falling behind in strategic engagement.
2. SMRs: A Game-Changer for Africa
SMRs are increasingly viewed as a practical solution for countries with small or decentralized grids, limited access to cooling water, and constrained budgets. With their modular design, enhanced safety, and lower upfront cost, SMRs are attracting interest from Ghana, South Africa, Morocco, and Rwanda.
Conclusion
Africa’s nuclear journey is no longer just aspirational—it’s underway. Egypt and South Africa are leading by example, while Ghana, Kenya, and others are moving steadily toward deployment. The future of SMRs in Africa is particularly promising and could unlock widespread nuclear access by the 2030s—but only for those who act today.
With demand for electricity growing fast, nuclear energy—both conventional and modular—offers a compelling pathway. For Africa, early preparation will determine not just who goes nuclear, but who benefits first from the next wave of energy innovation.
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