Rwanda and Pakistan have signed a significant cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening collaboration in nuclear regulatory oversight, capacity building, technical knowledge exchange, and the sharing of expertise in the peaceful use of nuclear technology.
The agreement was signed in Pakistan between Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) Deputy Director General Claude Nkusi and Zia Hussain Shah, Chairman of the Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA).
The signing ceremony was witnessed by Rwanda’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Fatou Harerimana, who represented Rwanda during the occasion.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is expected to enhance cooperation between the two countries in the regulation and supervision of nuclear-related activities while promoting the development of skilled personnel and institutional capacity.
During the signing ceremony, Claude Nkusi described the agreement as a major step forward for Rwanda’s efforts to strengthen its regulatory framework and align with international standards.
“This partnership reflects Rwanda’s commitment to building a robust and internationally aligned nuclear regulatory system. Through collaboration with Pakistan, we will enhance our technical expertise, strengthen institutional capacity, and ensure that any future nuclear applications are developed under the highest standards of safety and security,” he said.
On his part, Zia Hussain Shah welcomed the partnership and reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to share its extensive experience in nuclear regulation and safety.
“Pakistan has developed considerable expertise in nuclear regulatory oversight over the years. We are pleased to partner with Rwanda and support efforts aimed at strengthening regulatory capacity, promoting knowledge exchange, and ensuring the safe and peaceful use of nuclear technology,” Shah said.
Ambassador Fatou Harerimana said the agreement represents another milestone in the growing relationship between Rwanda and Pakistan.
“This cooperation demonstrates the mutual trust and shared commitment of our two countries to advancing science, technology, and sustainable development through strategic partnerships,” she noted.
The agreement comes as Rwanda continues to explore the use of advanced technologies, including nuclear applications in healthcare, agriculture, industry, research, and future energy development.
Through the partnership, Rwanda is expected to benefit from technical assistance, specialized training, regulatory expertise, and the exchange of best practices in nuclear safety and security.
Although Rwanda does not currently operate a nuclear power plant, experts say establishing a strong regulatory framework is an essential step toward safely adopting nuclear technologies and supporting any future ambitions in nuclear energy.
The agreement also reinforces Rwanda’s broader vision of investing in knowledge, innovation, and international partnerships to drive sustainable development while adhering to global safety standards.
The new cooperation framework highlights the shared commitment of Rwanda and Pakistan to strengthening scientific collaboration and ensuring that nuclear technology is developed and used responsibly for peaceful purposes.
By Andrew Shyaka
