Coordination Mechanisms for Inter-Agency Action in Detection of, and Response to Nuclear and Radioactive Material outside Regulatory Control in East African States

The IAEA published Nuclear Security Series (NSS) No. 20: Objective and Essential Elements of a State's Nuclear Security Regime published in 2013 provides guidance on the 12 essential elements of security that States need to apply as far as reasonable and practical. Since the 2005 Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material is in force, we consider these essential elements legally binding on states that have ratified it. These elements can provide an understanding of the nuclear security accountabilities and responsibilities and can serve as the basis for establishing whether a State's nuclear security regime is comprehensive, effective and efficient. It is conceived that a sound nuclear security regime is one in which all relevant responsibilities and accountabilities are executed and implemented satisfactorily by the several stakeholders. The challenge then arises from the state being considered as a single stakeholder yet in the execution of duties operates through several institutions and organizations independent of each other in various ways. The Essential Elements of a State's Nuclear Security Regime (IAEA NSS 20, 2013) seem to cover what one would easily conclude is all required for an effective and efficient nuclear security regime. It is evident however that without effective coordination and harmonization of the various responsibilities of the participating agencies, the objectives may not be achieved.