MOSCOW: Russia’s state nuclear power corporation, Rosatom, announced on Friday that it is in advanced negotiations with four African countries — Egypt, Namibia, Tanzania, and Togo — to deploy floating nuclear power stations aimed at addressing critical electricity shortages across the continent.
Alexey Likhachev, Director General of Rosatom, revealed during a press briefing following the Russia-Africa summit in Moscow that discussions are already underway regarding the implementation of these mobile nuclear facilities.
While several nations are actively developing floating nuclear reactor technologies, Russia remains the sole country currently operating such a plant, located in the remote Chukotka region. The facility became fully operational in 2020 and is seen as a model for supplying energy to geographically isolated areas, including Arctic settlements.
“A distinct characteristic of certain African economies is that numerous countries face disproportionately high electricity costs despite limited financial resources,” Likhachev stated. “This presents an opportunity for us to deliver clean and reliable energy through floating nuclear power units.”
He emphasized that 38 African nations have coastal access, making them suitable candidates for utilizing floating nuclear technology. Of these, nine have shown formal interest, with four entering into detailed negotiations.
In addition to energy infrastructure, Likhachev discussed ongoing initiatives such as a uranium extraction project in Namibia and plans to develop a lithium mine in Mali, which is estimated to hold over 4,000 tons of reserves — key materials integral to nuclear and renewable energy sectors.
For years, Russia has strategically expanded its economic and military presence throughout Africa, positioning itself as a significant global partner amid growing competition with Western nations and China for regional influence.
