Northwestern Province Permanent Secretary Col. Grandson Katambi (Rtd) has assured investors that Zambia is ready to embrace new technologies while safeguarding public health and safety.

Speaking during a consultative meeting on the ratification of nuclear-related conventions organized by the Ministry of Technology and Science in Solwezi, Col. Katambi said the proper use of nuclear energy has the potential to drive national development.

He noted that efforts by the Ministry and the Radiation Protection Authority to strengthen Zambia’s legal and regulatory framework on the peaceful use of nuclear technology are timely.

Col. Katambi emphasized the importance of ratifying conventions such as the Amendment to the Convention on Physical Protection of Nuclear Material, the Convention on Assistance in the Case of a Nuclear Accident or Radiological Emergency, and the Convention on Early Notification of a Nuclear Accident.

Col. Katambi said these ratifications are critical for protecting the environment and ensuring responsible use of nuclear energy.

He further called for active stakeholder participation and inclusion at all levels, while urging security personnel to safeguard uranium to prevent environmental risks.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Technology and Science Assistant Director John Chongo said the nationwide consultative meetings aim to address challenges such as load-shedding.

Mr Chongo added that nuclear energy has the potential to support industrialization, noting that developed countries are already using it for sustainable growth.

Mr Chongo stressed that Zambia must meet internationally set milestones to successfully undertake nuclear conventions, calling for broad stakeholder involvement.