The Ministry of Electricity and Energy hosted its Nuclear Energy Summit on 12 September at River Meadow Manor in Irene, Pretoria, and the Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), Prof Bismark Tyobeka, made his expert voice heard.

The theme of the summit was “Enhancing Nuclear Technology for Sustainable Development in South Africa”.

Prof Tyobeka moderated a panel discussion entitled Future Technology Prospects and their Strategic Importance. The panellists were Keith Featherstone (Eskom, Koeberg), Sengiphile Simelane (Necsa), Dr Vusi Thwala (NRWDI) and Katse Maphoto (DMRE).

Prof Tyobeka expressed particular interest in the revival of the Pebble Bed Modular Reactor and the deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs). He questioned whether South Africa should rely on proven nuclear technology or seek new innovative ways, and how best to deal with nuclear waste management. From a geopolitical perspective, Prof Tyobeka inquired about the potential risks that need to be considered with regard to the country that will serve as vendor for nuclear technology, and how these risks can be mitigated. The panel of industry experts provided valuable insights, and Prof Tyobeka was clearly in his element as he guided proceedings.  

The Summit also provided an opportunity for the Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, to engage with stakeholders in the nuclear community on the role and attributes of nuclear power in the context of climate change, and to discuss the main challenges facing the nuclear sector and explore solutions for realising the full potential of nuclear power in South Africa.   

In his address, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa outlined the critical role that nuclear energy must play in ensuring energy security. He also stressed the need for the general public to understand the science behind nuclear energy and its everyday applications, noting that nuclear energy can transform society, stimulate economic growth and lift people out of poverty. Furthermore, Dr Ramokgopa emphasised the central role of nuclear energy in South Africa’s energy mix and warned that the country should not lag behind as the rest of the world continues to develop and embrace this technology. 

Prof Tyobeka served as moderator on a panel discussion titled Future Technology Prospects and their Strategic Importance