Accra: Ghana is in the final stages of adopting a national policy on radioactive waste and spent fuel management after 10 years of its development, as the country positions itself to incorporate nuclear energy into the energy mix by 2030. The policy, to be finalised next week, will be forwarded to the Attorney-General's Office for advice, then to the sector Ministry and the Parliamentary Select Committee before its subsequent consideration and passage.
According to Ghana News Agency, Professor Francis Otoo, the Acting Director General of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA), provided the update at a stakeholder consultation workshop attended by more than 25 sector institutional representatives. He emphasized efforts to ensure the policy is practical and aligned with international best practices to protect people and the environment during implementation. Prof Otoo highlighted that Ghana currently has radiation sources in the mining, oil, and gas sectors, and with plans to include nuclear energy, the management of spent fuel will be crucial.
He explained that no company in Ghana owns radiation sources; they are rented and must be returned or safely stored. The management of such waste is currently handled by the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission and must meet international standards. The policy aims to establish procedures workers can practically follow, ensuring the NRA's guidelines are feasible and applicable.
Mr Kwamena Essilfie Quaison, the Director of Science and Technology at the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, described the policy framework as both a regulatory obligation and a moral imperative. He noted the significant benefits of nuclear science and technology applications in Ghana, from cancer treatment to agricultural research, and stressed the risks posed by improperly managed radioactive waste.
Mr Quaison outlined the policy's focus on safety, security, sustainability, transparency, and alignment with IAEA safety standards. The policy provides comprehensive guidance on the entire lifecycle of radioactive waste management, emphasizing the need for active engagement and practical solutions from participants.
He encouraged participants to provide feedback, technical insights, and criticisms to develop a policy that is technically sound, socially acceptable, economically viable, and operationally practical. Mr Quaison also acknowledged the NRA's technical leadership and the contributions of government agencies, academic institutions, civil society organisations, and development partners in strengthening Ghana's nuclear safety infrastructure.