Nuclear science under the spotlight at conference

The second nuclear science and technology conference spotlighted Africa’s need to “leapfrog’ and embrace new technological advances in nuclear science to address a myriad of challenges.The conference commenced in Swakopmund last Wednesday.It brought together experts, policymakers and international stakeholders to discuss the role of nuclear science in Namibia’s development, under the theme ‘Unlocking the Potential of Nuclear Science and Technology for Namibia’s Development&#039;.Health minister Kalumbi Shangula, on behalf of the Vice-President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, highlighted current health challenges faced by Namibia in its fight against cancer and the role nuclear science applications can play in this realm.Namibia recorded 3 453 new cases of cancer and 1 940 cancer deaths in 2022.“This means that out of every ten people diagnosed with cancer, six of them lost their lives due to cancer.” Shangula highlighted that applications of nuclear medicine such as diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy present transformative opportunities. “When these advanced medical technologies are integrated in interventions, diagnostic accuracy is significantly enhanced and therapeutic outcomes are improved,” he said.Shangula also highlighted the broader applications of nuclear science in agriculture, food safety and water management, emphasising the potential of nuclear technology to drive sustainable development.Broad applicationsShaukat Abdulrazak, director of the Division for Africa at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), stated that nearly 20 African countries currently lack nuclear medicine and radiotherapy facilities for cancer diagnosis and treatment, compounded by a shortage of skilled professionals in nuclear science and technology.To address these challenges, the IAEA recently launched several initiatives. The Rays of Hope initiative aims to improve access to cancer diagnosis and treatment; NUTEC Plastics targets plastic pollution; ZODIAC assists member states in preparing for early detection of future pandemics; and Atoms4Food focuses on strengthening agricultural food systems to boost agricultural productivity.The second Nuclear Science and Technology Conference was organised by the Atomic Energy Board of Namibia, NUST and various partners.precious@erongo.com.na

Nuclear science under the spotlight at conference

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

Please login to leave a comment

Nuclear science under the spotlight at conference

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

Please login to leave a comment

Login