The first expert session within the framework of the BRICS Nuclear Energy Platform has been held in China, with leading experts discussing best practices for implementing modern solutions in the energy sector.

As South Africa's Safari-1 research reactor marks its 60th anniversary, Minister of Electricity and Energy Kgosientso Ramokgopa has announced a budget allocation of ZAR1.2 billion (USD66 million) towards a new multipurpose reactor at Pelindaba.

South African high-temperature gas-cooled reactor developer Stratek Global has announced a strategic partnership with France's Groupe Albatros with the aim of preparing feasibility studies for potential projects in Africa and the Middle East.

As South Africa takes the helm of the G20 Presidency in 2025, there is widespread curiosity about the nation’s agenda and whether nuclear energy will feature prominently in these critical discussions, writes Princess Mthombeni. With the theme "Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability", South Africa is poised to address global challenges, but the question remains: will nuclear energy’s potential to support sustainable development and energy transitions be part of the conversation?

Unit 2 of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station in Cape Town was reconnected to the South African grid on 30 December after the completion of extensive maintenance to extend the unit's operational lifespan by an additional 20 years.

Recent memorandums of understanding signed by microreactor developer NANO Nuclear Energy will see it work with the US Department of Energy on evaluating the feasibility of siting its experimental microreactors at the Idaho National Laboratory; with the Togolese government on the potential deployment of its microreactors in West Africa; and with a Canadian startup company on integrating its technology with an innovative farming technique.

The South African government remains committed to the use of nuclear energy and is planning to revive its Pebble Bed Modular Reactor programme and embark on new builds, the Deputy Director General of the Department for Mineral Resources and Energy has said.

Specialist global investment firm C5 Capital and multinational mining and metals processing group Sibanye-Stillwater are joining together to participate in future development of advanced nuclear energy opportunities in South Africa and globally.

Russia's TVEL and South Africa's AllWeld Nuclear and Industrial have signed a memorandum of cooperation in the field of decommissioning and radioactive waste management.