Moscow/ Addis Ababa — Russia and Ethiopia have signed a landmark document to plan and construct a nuclear power plant in Ethiopia, marking a significant step in Moscow’s growing influence in Africa’s energy sector.
The deal was formalized during a nuclear power forum in Moscow, where Rosatom Director General Alexei Likhachev and Ethiopian Electric Company CEO Ashebir Balcha signed the action plan. The agreement outlines the development of a comprehensive road map for technical and economic planning, as well as preparations for a binding intergovernmental accord.
The plan also includes the training of Ethiopian staff to operate the proposed nuclear facility and initiatives to build local expertise in nuclear technology. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Russian President Vladimir Putin witnessed the exchange, underscoring the political weight of the partnership.
Russia’s state nuclear corporation Rosatom has been spearheading projects across Africa, with Ethiopia now joining a growing list of countries pursuing nuclear energy cooperation with Moscow. Earlier this month, Niger’s mining minister announced plans to build two 2,000-megawatt reactors in partnership with Rosatom, highlighting Russia’s broader strategy to expand its footprint in Africa’s energy landscape.
Currently, South Africa is the only African nation operating a nuclear power plant, while Egypt has reactors under construction. Ethiopia’s pursuit of nuclear energy is seen as part of its drive to diversify power sources, reduce dependence on hydropower, and support industrial growth.
The agreement comes at a time of intensified geopolitical competition in Africa. For Moscow, nuclear diplomacy is both a means of strengthening alliances and advancing its economic interests. For Addis Ababa, nuclear power offers the promise of long-term energy security amid rising domestic demand and ambitious development goals.
If successful, the Ethiopia project would mark a historic first for East Africa, making the country a key player in the continent’s transition toward nuclear-generated electricity.
