Nuclear Energy Crucial to Ghana’s Industrial and Green Future – Deputy Minister
Ghana is positioning nuclear energy as a cornerstone of its future energy strategy, with Deputy Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Hon. Richard Gyan-Mensah, declaring it essential for both industrial development and the country’s climate ambitions.
Speaking at a Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum on the Draft Bill to establish the Ghana Nuclear Power Company, the Deputy Minister emphasized that the nation must diversify its power sources to meet rising demand and ensure long-term stability.
“Ghana’s energy demands are growing rapidly, and we must diversify our sources to ensure a stable and sustainable supply of power,” Hon. Gyan-Mensah stated. “Nuclear energy is a strategic imperative. It offers baseload power to support industrialization, low-carbon electricity to meet our climate commitments, and ensures long-term energy security.”
The forum, hosted by the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, brought together energy experts, civil society groups, international partners, and policymakers to discuss Ghana’s nuclear roadmap.
The proposed legislation seeks to create the Ghana Nuclear Power Company, a dedicated body responsible for the planning, construction, and operation of nuclear power plants. The initiative is part of Ghana’s broader efforts to transform its energy sector and reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels.
Hon. Gyan-Mensah also highlighted the role of nuclear power in combating climate change, noting its potential to significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions while delivering reliable and efficient electricity.
Ghana’s nuclear programme has been progressing under the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Three-Phase Milestone Approach, a global framework for the safe and secure development of nuclear power. The Deputy Minister acknowledged the IAEA’s recognition of Ghana’s commitment and reaffirmed the government’s dedication to upholding international best practices.
“The IAEA has acknowledged Ghana’s strong commitment to nuclear development,” he said. “We are committed to adopting international best practices and ensuring the highest standards of safety and regulation.”
He further stressed the importance of public engagement and transparency throughout the nuclear rollout.
“We will continue to hold extensive public consultations to address all concerns. Our decisions will be risk-informed and guided by the best interests of the Ghanaian people,” he added.
As the government advances its energy transformation agenda, the integration of nuclear energy signals a major policy shift aimed at fostering economic growth, energy security, and environmental sustainability.
