RPA, ZP Strengthen Nuclear Security


Partnership formalised to boost Zambia’s capacity in radiation protection and nuclear safety

By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24 — (8 January 2026)] ? M—
The Radiation Protection Authority (RPA) and the Zambia Police Service (ZPS) on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen Zambia’s capacity in radiation protection, nuclear safety, and security. The agreement is a major step in the country’s preparedness against the illicit trafficking and misuse of radioactive materials.

The MoU was signed during a formal ceremony attended by senior government and police officials. Inspector General of Police Graphel Musamba and RPA Executive Director Dr. Boster Dearson Siwila led their institutions in formalising the partnership.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Siwila said the agreement provides a framework for closer collaboration between the RPA and law enforcement. 

The focus will be on preventing, detecting, responding to, and investigating incidents involving radioactive and nuclear materials.

He highlighted that as Zambia explores the peaceful use of nuclear technologies for development, it is crucial to build strong security systems and human capacity first.

“This partnership is timely and forward-looking. Effective radiation and nuclear safety cannot be achieved alone and requires collaboration with law enforcement agencies,” Dr. Siwila said.

Under the MoU, the RPA and ZPS will work together to establish a National Nuclear Security Support Centre. They will also conduct joint research, develop specialised training programmes, share equipment, and deploy radiation protection experts to support police operations.

Dr. Siwila emphasised that Zambia remains committed to non-proliferation. All nuclear and radioactive materials entering the country will be used strictly for peaceful purposes such as energy, health, agriculture, and research.

The agreement also sets out clear governance arrangements, performance management, joint resource mobilisation, and financial accountability guided by approved project proposals.

Inspector General of Police Graphel Musamba called the MoU a milestone in institutional cooperation. He said it would improve training, research, and operational readiness related to radiation and nuclear security.

“The partnership reflects our shared commitment to a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Zambia. By combining our strengths, resources, and expertise, we are laying a firm foundation to handle radiation incidents and nuclear security threats,” Musamba said.

The MoU marks the start of a long-term strategic partnership between the RPA and Zambia Police Service. It aims to safeguard public safety and strengthen Zambia’s compliance with national development priorities and international obligations on nuclear safety and security.

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