Burkina Faso moves toward energy independence with nuclear power plant deal

In a significant step towards energy sovereignty, Burkina Faso is set to collaborate with Russia on constructing a nuclear power plant. On Wednesday evening, Burkinabè Minister of Energy Yacouba Zabré Gouba and the Russian company ROSATOM will formalize a roadmap and sign documents related to a memorandum of understanding in Saint Petersburg, as reported by the Agence d’Information du Burkina (AIB).

Earlier in the day, Burkina Faso’s Director General of Energy, Dr. Alidou Koutou, and Souleymane Sawadogo, the Technical Advisor overseeing SONABEL’s energy policy, engaged in a strategic meeting with ROSATOM representatives. The meeting, held on June 5, 2024, aimed to solidify both parties’ commitment to the nuclear power plant’s construction, reflecting a shared vision for the project’s future.

According to the Ministry of Energy’s Communications Directorate, the discussions confirmed mutual agreement on the steps required to realize this ambitious project. This development is a part of Burkina Faso’s broader goal to achieve energy independence and bolster national development. “The challenge is to work to achieve energy sovereignty for the development of Burkina Faso,” the Ministry emphasized.

The forthcoming memorandum of understanding encompasses several critical aspects beyond the plant’s construction. These include education and training programs tailored for nuclear energy industry personnel, public awareness campaigns about the benefits of nuclear technologies, and the assessment and development of necessary nuclear infrastructure.

This partnership marks a pivotal moment for Burkina Faso, often referred to as the Land of Integrity, as it strives to meet its energy needs and support sustainable growth through advanced nuclear technology.