Rosatom is strengthening its partnership with Africa: the best youth nuclear technology projects were selected at the Atoms Empowering Africa video contest, while innovative solutions — from floating power units to small modular reactors — were showcased at the Enlit Africa exhibition. The Russian nuclear corporation demonstrates how nuclear energy can become a driver of sustainable development across the continent.
Rosatom has announced the winners of the 8th annual Atoms Empowering Africa 2025 video contest, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of Russia’s nuclear industry.
The goal of the event was to inspire African youth to explore the potential of nuclear technologies. Contestants were asked to create short videos illustrating how nuclear energy can contribute to Africa’s sustainable development. This year, they could choose from three themes: Honor of the Past, Inspiration of the Present, and Dreams of the Future.
More than 50 submissions came in from across Africa. An international jury composed of experts from South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Namibia, Burkina Faso, and other countries selected winners of the contest. They represent South Africa, Egypt, Kenya, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, and Namibia. The winners will travel to Russia to visit key nuclear industry sites, including the Atom Museum at Moscow’s Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy (VDNH).
“This year’s contestants impressed us with the depth of ideas and the exceptional quality of their work,” said Ryan Collyer, CEO of Rosatom Central and Southern Africa. “In this 80th anniversary year of Russia’s nuclear industry, it is incredibly important to see young Africans engaging thoughtfully with this topic. Their voices are not just telling compelling stories — they are helping shape a vision of the future based on sustainable development, innovation, and knowledge sharing.”
The highest score went to Angel Makibi from South Africa. In the video, the creator explains that nuclear power is a safe and clean energy source that emits no harmful pollutants and is not dependent on weather conditions. One gram of uranium-235 produces approximately as much energy as burning one to three tons of coal. Small nuclear reactors are suitable for many regions in Africa. The author also discusses water desalination technologies, nuclear medicine, and other applications relevant to the continent. “Nuclear energy is Africa’s future — and the future starts now,” the video creator concludes.
Winning videos are available online via this link.
Rosatom showcased cutting-edge nuclear technologies at the Enlit Africa 2025 conference and exhibition in Cape Town. For 25 years, Enlit Africa has brought together professionals, innovators, policymakers, and investors from Africa’s energy, water, and electricity sectors to tackle critical challenges and advance sustainable development.
Visitors to Rosatom’s exhibition booth could watch a multimedia presentation on floating power units (FPUs), a model of the RITM-200 reactor, and uranium mining solutions involving the use of in-situ leaching techniques (extracting uranium from ore using solvents injected through drilled wells).
A highlight of the business program was a panel discussion on floating power units. Vladimir Aptekarev, Deputy CEO for Shipbuilding, Floating Power Solutions and Marine Technology at Rosatom’s mechanical engineering division, noted: “Floating power units are a one-of-a-kind, continent-tailored solution that accounts for Africa’s climatic, economic, and infrastructure specifics. FPUs will be a reliable source of green energy for coastal cities, remote areas, and industrial sites, contributing to sustainable development and energy independence for Africa.”
A floating power unit can be delivered to any location accessible by sea. All equipment is installed on a floating platform and can be relocated if necessary — a flexibility that an onshore power station does not have. FPUs are fully assembled at a shipyard and arrive at their destination ready for operation. This approach reduces capital costs, shortens construction times, and enhances reliability as high-quality manufacturing standards can be ensured under factory conditions.
Vadim Titov, Head of Rosatom’s delegation and CEO of Rosatom International Network, said: “Today, Rosatom is a leader in safe and peaceful uses of nuclear technology, and a reliable partner for the entire African continent. We offer flexible and sustainable nuclear energy solutions capable of transforming the region’s energy landscape. Together, we are laying the foundation for a bright, secure, and prosperous future for all of Africa.”
Photo by: Vuka Group, JSC SSC RF – FEI
