Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata in VICTORIA FALLS
THE Government is accelerating efforts to strengthen the country’s radiation protection and nuclear security framework through legislative reforms and infrastructure development, Radiation Protection Authority of Zimbabwe Board chairperson Dr Anna Nyakabau has said.
Speaking at the official opening of the National Radiation Safety and Security Workshop for managers and decision makers in Victoria Falls yesterday, Dr Nyakabau said authorities were prioritising the finalisation of the Radiation Protection Amendment Bill and the completion of the National Radioactive Waste Management Facility.
The workshop brought together executives, regulators and stakeholders from institutions that use radiation and nuclear-related technologies.
Dr Nyakabau said the Office of the President and Cabinet remains committed to enhancing the country’s radiation safety and security systems in line with international obligations.
“These include the finalisation and gazetting of the Radiation Protection Amendment Bill, which is expected to strengthen the national legal and regulatory framework in line with international standards and emerging sector needs,” she said.
Dr Nyakabau said the National Radioactive Waste Management Facility is a critical national project that would ensure the safe, secure and long-term management of radioactive waste generated in the country.
“Priority is also being given towards the completion of the National Radioactive Waste Management Facility, which remains critical for the safe, secure and long-term management of radioactive waste in Zimbabwe.”
Dr Nyakabau said Government remains committed to fulfilling its international obligations on nuclear and radiological safety, security and safeguards.
To achieve this, the OPC has continued to support the RPAZ in strengthening regulatory oversight, institutional capacity and national coordination mechanisms.
Dr Nyakabau said preparations are also underway for the Third Radiation Safety Conference scheduled for the first half of 2027, which is expected to provide a broader platform for dialogue, cooperation and knowledge-sharing on radiation safety and nuclear security matters.
She said radiation technologies are playing an increasingly important role in national development through their application in sectors such as health, mining, agriculture, industry and research.
However, Dr Nyakabau said emerging security threats, technological advancements and increased movement of radioactive materials required institutions to strengthen governance systems and compliance mechanisms.
“The prime responsibility for radiation safety and security rests with the licensee and the leadership of each organisation.
“As executives and decision makers, you are the custodians of safety within your institutions. The commitment demonstrated at the leadership level determines whether safety and security become embedded organisational values or remain mere compliance obligations.”
Dr Nyakabau encouraged organisations to strengthen internal compliance systems, support technical personnel, invest in preparedness and promote a culture of safety, security and accountability.
She also rallied stakeholders to move beyond regulatory compliance and champion a proactive approach to radiation safety and nuclear security.
The workshop is expected to deliberate on policy issues, regulatory reforms, operational experiences and best practices aimed at improving safety and security standards in the sector.
Peter Tanyanyiwa