THE South African energy minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has declared that the government is still committed to rollout the nuclear energy expansion forming part of the country’s energy mix.
Kubayi noted in a press statement that this is to ensure energy security, adding that government is committed to the provision of reliable and sustainable electricity supply, as part of reducing carbon emissions.
Kubayi recently led a delegation to the 9th International Forum ATOMEXPO in Moscow, Russia.
According to the statement, during discussions the minister reiterated his department’s openness and transparency, as well as to engage all spheres of government and the public, in line with the country’s legislation and policies.
‘It is critical to recognise that the nuclear new build programme will enable the country to create jobs, develop skills and create industries. More critically, we encourage young people and women to participate in the energy sector,’ she said.
The press statement highlighted that the country participates in forums of this stature to gain experience in preparation for the expansion of the nuclear new build programme.
Kubayi held a bilateral meeting with the minister of energy for the Russian Federation, Alexander Novak, where they discussed various options in the nuclear and energy space, within the context of the energy cooperation agreement.
She also met with the director general of Rosatom, Alexey Likhachev, where they agreed that technical teams will initiate discussions on co-operation, the release stated.