Rwanda to Host Landmark Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit – NEISA 2025

The Government of Rwanda has officially announced the Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa (NEISA 2025), set to take place from 30 June to 1 July 2025 at the Kigali Convention Centre.

Held under the theme “The Potential of Small Modular and Micro Reactors in Accelerating Africa’s Energy Transition,” the summit will bring together global leaders, policymakers, scientists, financiers, and industry experts to explore how advanced nuclear technologies can address Africa’s urgent energy challenges and contribute to sustainable development across the continent.

Convened in collaboration with key international institutions—including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), and the World Nuclear Association (WNA)—NEISA 2025 aims to position nuclear innovation as a cornerstone of Africa’s energy future.

A Timely Summit with Global Implications

Africa remains the region with the highest rates of energy poverty, with over 600 million people lacking access to reliable electricity. At the same time, the continent is experiencing rapid urbanization, industrial expansion, and digital infrastructure growth—all of which demand secure and sustainable energy systems.

“Africa is not merely adapting to the global energy transition—we are driving it. Nuclear energy is no longer a distant aspiration; it is central to our strategy for sustainable growth, regional integration, and energy security. The time to act is now.” Dr. Lassina Zerbo, Chairman, Rwanda Atomic Energy Board

As the world moves toward net-zero emissions, NEISA 2025 positions Africa not as a passive recipient of technology, but as a proactive and innovative player in global nuclear development. By focusing on modular, safe, and scalable nuclear solutions, the summit will showcase how SMRs and Micro Reactors can bridge energy gaps, support off-grid industrialization, and help meet international climate goals.

Summit Highlights

• Multilateral panels addressing policy, regulation, and public engagement
• Investor roundtables and vendor showcases featuring nuclear technologies for energy, health, agriculture, and water
• Intergenerational dialogues on youth capacity building and the future of nuclear careers in Africa

Key Topics & Opportunities

• Energy Security and Climate Resilience: Exploring how SMRs and Micro Reactors can provide reliable, clean energy to meet Africa’s growing industrial and societal needs.
• Investment and Financing Models: Focused sessions on capital mobilization, blended finance, and regional co-investment platforms.
• Policy, Regulation, and Governance: Insights from government leaders and international agencies on enabling frameworks for safe, secure, and peaceful nuclear energy deployment.
• Technology and Localization: Vendor showcases and technical briefings on scalable applications of nuclear technology across sectors.
• Youth and Workforce Development: Intergenerational dialogue on capacity building, STEM education, and Africa’s nuclear future.