Regulatory implications for nuclear security, NMAC and security culture: nuclear expansion in Africa for sustainable development

In recognising that countries falling under the African Union are equally Member States to the United Nations (UN) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), appointed and mandated national nuclear regulatory authorities must have in place programmes that are in synergy with the UN Millennium Development Goals. It is a State-centred choice and obligations for AU states to consider the adoption of energy mix policy. In this regard their affected industries should have in place legal and authorised operations conducted under the implementation of independent regulatory or competent authorities. Various African states are open to establishing sound and sustainable energy policy which includes power generation as a peaceful outcome of the application of nuclear technology. Just as nuclear safety is chief among the required obligations to ensure a sustainable future for future generations in States that go nuclear; peace and security is a primary goal and integrated in the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), now SDGs. In this respect the IAEA provides basis and legal framework upon which Member States are to develop effective and sustainable nuclear technology programmes including adequate regulatory nuclear security programmes. Established nuclear regulatory framework for nuclear safety, safeguards and security must be responsive and reflexive to current UN MDG/SDGs: Goal 7. ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all. The AU promotes peaceful use of nuclear technology in as far as fostering economic development and growth, and meeting environmental protection goals as set out in the stated principles of the Rio Declaration. Hence, the need for a sound and sustainable nuclear regulatory programme within a State. On the African continent and elsewhere globally, there are nuclear power plants and fuel cycle facilities, operating under independent and competent regulatory regimes supported by effective and adequate legislative, and regulatory framework comprised of world class regulatory standards and on-going good safety record. The IAEA provides for a framework on nuclear security essential elements for consideration by MS (NSS.20). There are various facets to nuclear security for which the established Regulator should take into account. Several countries are embarking to increase their share of nuclear energy in their respective power supply mix. Various aspects comprise nuclear security such as PPS, cyber security, intrusion detection system and NMAC. NMAC is of significance for integration in the established nuclear regulatory framework: identity of NM/containers, locations, amounts/quantities. NMAC facilities and operations present a key Insider Threat: access rights, authority, opportunity and knowledge. NMAC deals wih: nuclear material control, physical inventory, records, detection, investigation and nuclear material movement