Somalia Oficially Joins the International Atomic Energy Agency

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia has officially joined the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), becoming the newest and 179th member of the UN nuclear watchdog.

This was announced Monday during the 68th IAEA conference held in Vienna, Austria.

In a statement, Federal Republic of Somalia Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre said the move marks a historic moment for Somalia, signifying our deep commitment to international cooperation, peace, and the responsible use of advanced technologies for the benefit of our people.

He further stated that the move is also a significant milestone reflecting the country’s commitment to promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

“Somalia’s membership in the IAEA represents an important step in our country’s progress and development. We believe that nuclear science and technology, when applied peacefully, offer immense potential to address some of the most pressing challenges we face, from improving healthcare and agriculture to managing our natural resources more effectively and building resilience to climate change,” the office of the Somali prime minister said in a statement on Monday.

PM Barre stated that Somalia will collaborate with fellow Member States and the IAEA Secretariat, drawing on the Agency’s expertise in areas such as energy production, radiation protection, and nuclear safety.

He also said the country looks forward to participating in the global exchange of knowledge and best practices, and to contributing to the common goal of promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy worldwide.

“As we embark on this new chapter of engagement with the IAEA, Somalia reaffirms its commitment to upholding the principles of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and contributing to international efforts aimed at ensuring that nuclear technology is used solely for peaceful purposes. We will work tirelessly with the IAEA and the global community to ensure that nuclear science and technology serve as tools for development, security, and peace,” the Prime Minister’s statement further states.

Somali Information Minister Daud Aweis said as a member of the UN nuclear watchdog, “Somalia looks forward to collaborating with the international community to harness nuclear technology for the benefit of our nation and to ensure the highest standards of safety and security.”

He said Somalia is dedicated to utilizing nuclear energy responsibly to support sustainable development and improve the quality of life for the citizens of Somalia.

By joining the IAEA, Somalia seeks to harness the benefits of nuclear technology in a way that is safe, secure, and sustainable, and fully compliant with international standards and regulations.