The International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) Technical Co-operation Programme is driving sustainable development in critical sectors, including health and nutrition, in Africa.
This is according to Health and Social Services Minister Esperance Luvindao, who called on African national liaison officers and co-ordinators to form strong collaborations.
National liaison officers from the IAEA and officials of the African Regional Co-operative Agreement for Research, Development, and Training are currently gathered for their annual meeting in Swakopmund.
The session provides a platform for African countries to discuss the implementation of the International Atomic Energy Agency's Technical Cooperation Programme.
Dr. Luvindao said the partnership forms the backbone of developing nations' efforts in the field and is driving development on the continent.
"In health and nutrition, we are fighting the double burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases, using nuclear techniques to improve diagnostics and nutritional standards. In food and agriculture, we are increasing food production and safety to feed a growing continent."
The minister revealed that Namibia has received about N$115 million in assistance under the programme since independence.
The minister stated that the programme provided training to 295 Namibians and empowered universities to introduce postgraduate programmes in nuclear and radiation science.
"We must realise that the IAEA TC Programme is merely a seed. It is now our duty to ensure that this seed fertilises the ground for the development of a full-scale, self-sustaining nuclear industry across the continent."
The Acting Director of the IAEA Africa Division, Gashow Wolde, cited radiation-safety measures, financial contributions, resource mobilisation and partnerships as critical issues that needed attention.
"To fully benefit from the application of nuclear science and technology, member states should have basic radiation safety infrastructure that is aimed at maximising the benefits while we harness the uses of peaceful application. Strong partnerships amplify impact. I encourage you to intensify collaboration with bilateral and multilateral partners, even the possibility of exploring working with the private sector."
The IAEA supports 49 countries in Africa.