Russia and Congo recently signed an agreement on nuclear cooperation. According to the Russian nuclear company Rosatom, both countries have signed memorandums of understanding aimed at developing hydropower and nuclear energy. Rosatom is actively involved in nuclear projects across the African continent, including the construction of nuclear power plants, as reported by Business Insider Africa.
This move involves Rosatom's plans to use small and medium reactors for building nuclear power stations not only in sub-Saharan Africa but also beyond. The visit to Congo follows other key agreements in the region, such as partnerships with Guinea for floating nuclear power plants and cooperation with Algeria on nuclear technologies.
The Algerian Ministry of Energy has already signed a memorandum of cooperation with Rosatom covering plans for 2024-2025, focused on developing nuclear technologies. These initiatives reflect Russia's desire to strengthen its influence in Africa.
Tanzania has also expressed interest in collaborating with Russia on nuclear technologies. Rwanda and Uganda have previously shown interest in building nuclear power plants with Rosatom's involvement, which has sparked broad public debate and resistance.
Rosatom is also under scrutiny for its shadowy activities, including allegations of corruption and involvement in international espionage. The company is accused of using its resources to lobby for its interests and placing its agents in international organizations like the IAEA, raising global security risks and undermining international standards.
The inclusion of Rosatom in the 11th package of sanctions against Russia faced fierce resistance from some of Europe's largest energy companies, which continue to do business with the Russian nuclear energy giant.
