Mali, Russian firm sign agreement to develop nuclear energy infrastructure

The ruling military junta in Mali has sealed a deal with a Russian state nuclear company, Rosatom, that will develop three nuclear energy infrastructure projects, including a Russian-designed low-power nuclear power plant in the country.

A statement by Rosatom on Wednesday made available to Ripples Nigeria said that it had met with the leader of Mali’s junta, Assimi Goita, where negotiations were held with the junta officials responsible for the economy, energy and education.

“As well as discussing a strategic project to build a Russian-designed low-power nuclear power plant in Mali, junta officials and Rosatom talked about solar power generation and geological exploration projects,” the statement said.

The statement added that the meeting was held between Goïta and officials of the Rosatom State Corporation on the prospects of nuclear energy and personnel development.

“A meeting took place between the President of the Transition Period of the Republic of Mali, Assimi Goïta and on July 2-3, 2024. Nikolay Spassky, the Deputy Director General for International Relations, informed the President in detail about the progress of the main cooperation projects being implemented in the Republic through the organisation.

“The ministerial delegation of the Republic of Mali led by the Minister of Economy and Finance Alousséni Sanou held detailed negotiations.

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“In particular, projects in the fields of solar generation and geological exploration were discussed in detail. Particular attention was given to the prospect of launching a strategic project to build a Russian-designed low-power nuclear power plant in Mali.

“The evidence of this growing cooperation is active participation of nuclear energy corporations’ representatives and various African delegations in important business events.

“Particular attention was given to the prospect of launching a strategic project to build a Russian-designed low-power nuclear power plant in Mali.

“As a result of the negotiations, three memorandums were signed. Documents on cooperation in the field of development of nuclear infrastructure and on forming a positive public opinion were signed with Bintou Camara, Minister of Energy and Water Resources of the Republic of Mali.

“Bourema Kansaye, the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research of the Republic of Mali signed a memorandum about cooperation in the field of personnel training.

“The parties agreed to continue maintaining close contacts and periodically coordinate positions as joint work progresses. Cooperation between Mali and Rosatom may be a productive step towards building a sustainable energy future in Africa.”

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