By Bongiwe Dlamini

MBABANE:Prince Lonkhonkhela,the Minister of Natural Resources and Energy has called for Global Cooperation on Nuclear Technology.

As reported by Government online platforms, the Minister was addressing the Ministerial Conference on Nuclear Science, Technology and Applications, and the Technical Cooperation Programme at the IAEA’s headquarters in Vienna-Austria this week.

“In his remarks, the Minister acknowledged the critical role played by the IAEA in addressing many of the challenges faced by African countries, especially under the leadership of its Director General. He praised the IAEA for its swift assistance in cancer treatment, water scarcity, insect pest control, livestock production and health, and other issues affecting the African continent. The Minister expressed gratitude for the agency’s unwavering support and ongoing commitment to improving the lives and livelihoods of the people in Africa. The Hon. Prince expressed gratitude for the IAEA’s support in addressing Eswatini’s challenges through human resource development programs. During his address at the IAEA’s Ministerial Conference, the Minister emphasized the need for global collaboration and investment in nuclear research and development, while commending the IAEA’s commitment to improving the lives of African citizens”, reads the Government online report.

It has been reported that, since joining the IAEA Technical Cooperation Program in 2013, Eswatini has been expanding its utilization of nuclear science and technology in key areas such as nuclear and radiation safety, food and agriculture, human health, water resources management, and energy planning.

“The Kingdom of Eswatini has recently concluded a project on Isotope Hydrology, which has contributed to improving water resources management and energy planning. This project has also resulted in a short-term electricity generation expansion plan that will enhance the country’s energy security. Additionally, Eswatini has expressed interest in joining the IAEA’s Atoms for Food and Rays of Hope initiatives, and a meeting with the Ministry of Agriculture is scheduled to discuss these opportunities in more detail,” said the Minister.