Canada Signals Interest in Ethiopia’s Nuclear Plans

Canada has expressed interest in supporting Ethiopia’s emerging nuclear energy programme, with discussions focusing on cooperation in small modular reactor (SMR) technology.

Talks held in Addis Ababa between Commissioner Sandokan Debebe, commissioner of the Ethiopian Nuclear Energy Commission and Ambassador Nicolas Simard, Ambassador of Canada to Ethiopia and Djibouti, explored the potential role of SMRs in Ethiopia’s long-term energy strategy. Simard said Canada is willing to engage as a partner in Ethiopia’s nuclear development, highlighting its expertise in SMR technology and broader nuclear infrastructure planning.

The discussions also covered collaboration in nuclear power development, mining, and human capital development and also both sides reviewed opportunities to train Ethiopian students and professionals through scholarships and fellowships at Canadian nuclear institutions.

The meeting concluded with both sides signalling a commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation in nuclear science and technology, with a focus on capacity building and long-term energy planning.

While the country has traditionally relied on hydropower, it has increasingly explored alternative energy sources, such as nuclear, to meet the growing electricity demand and support industrialization and while she remains in the early stages of developing nuclear capacity, she is working to establish regulatory frameworks and technical capabilities for the peaceful use of nuclear technology.