By Emmanuel Aboagye-Wiafe
Ghana is intensifying efforts to develop its first nuclear power plant and is strongly considering Russia’s advanced nuclear technology as a key option. The move highlights Russia’s growing prominence as a trusted partner in Africa’s nuclear energy space, where its State Atomic Energy Corporation, Rosatom, is already constructing Egypt’s first nuclear power plant at El Dabaa. That project, comprising four large reactors, is expected to deliver 10% of Egypt’s electricity needs once completed.
Speaking at the launch of the 2025 Ghana Energy Awards in Accra, Deputy Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Richard Gyan Mensah, confirmed that Russia has tabled a proposal and is now under active consideration.
“There is a new discussion with the Russian government which has brought in a proposal, and we are considering it as well,” he said.
Ghana’s nuclear programme is at an advanced stage of development, with the country already securing two candidate sites that make up 60% of the required land size for the project. While the US and China have been shortlisted as vendor partners, the government sees Russia’s proven track record in nuclear deployment across Africa as a strong basis to bring it on board.
The deputy minister emphasized that nuclear power is central to Ghana’s strategy to enhance energy security, diversify the power mix, and accelerate low-carbon growth. He added that the government is also targeting 90% nationwide electricity coverage by the end of 2025, with measures such as competitive power procurement and renegotiation of power purchase agreements aimed at reducing costs.
Ghana recently completed the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) site selection process, which confirmed adherence to international safety standards. This milestone officially moves Ghana into Phase 2 of the IAEA’s three-phase roadmap for nuclear development.
As more African nations explore nuclear power to meet growing energy demand, Russia’s deepening partnerships on the continent could play a decisive role in shaping the region’s energy future. For Ghana, adopting Russian nuclear technology could provide the stable, low-carbon base-load power required to meet rising demand, spur industrial growth, and ensure affordable electricity for both households and industries.