By Patricia Nanteza
Dear Greenpeace,
We write to you as concerned citizens from Africa, with a deep-rooted interest in the sustainable development of our continent. We appreciate the commendable work you have undertaken over the years to safeguard the environment and advocate for a greener and cleaner world.
Nevertheless, today, we request a re-evaluation of your stance on carbon-free nuclear power. We implore you to reconsider your opposition to nuclear, cease your endless campaigns designed to incite and misinform and stop all self-defeating court cases.
Africa, endowed with abundant natural resources, notably extensive uranium reserves, stands at a crossroads. Despite this wealth, nearly 600 million Africans lack access to reliable energy sources, and numerous African nations grapple with debilitating energy shortages, impeding both social and economic progress.
Dear Greenpeace, while we acknowledge that your opposition to nuclear energy has predominantly focused on Europe, but we wish to emphasize that what affects Europe sooner or letter affects Africa. Your stance on nuclear energy, which has the potential to help Africa bridge the energy deficit and empower African countries to achieve a sustainable and prosperous future, is a manifest contradiction of your intentions for a carbon-free world.
There is irrefutable scientific evidence thagt nuclear energy offers a viable alternative to fossil fuels, notorious contributors to carbon emissions and climate change. Paradoxically, by opposing nuclear power, which emits minimal carbon dioxide during operation, you inadvertently obstruct Africa’s effective transition from fossil fuels and alleviation of the strain on the forests poweri
ng most kitchens on the continent through charcoal and wood.
Dear Greenpeace, we acknowledge the concerns regarding safety and waste disposal in the context of nuclear energy. However, we urge you to recognize that the nuclear industry has made notable strides in waste reduction and efficient disposal methods. In fact, advances in reprocessing technologies and the creation of advanced reactors promise effective long-term solutions to nuclear waste concerns.
We daresay that engaging with African nations in developing nuclear energy programs would allow you to influence these efforts more meaningfully to ensure stringent waste management and disposal protocols from the outset, rather than obstructing the potential of technology to mitigate climate change and drive growth.
Dear Greenpeace, acknowledge that Africa’s renewable energy potential alone cannot meet current and projected energy demand. While solar, wind and hydro-electric power are integral components of Africa’s sustainable energy mix, they are often constrained by geography and weather conditions, exposing African economies to intermittent power supply. Nuclear energy, with its consistent and base-load supply, can complement these renewable sources, help stabilize the grid and ensure energy security for African communities.
We implore you to reconsider your opposition to nuclear energy. Your arguments against nuclear clearly contradict scientific evidence and ignore advancements in technology.
The development of nuclear power presents a unique opportunity for Africa to leverage its resources, bridge the energy gap, combat climate change, and stimulate socio-economic growth.
Sincerely,
Nanteza is Director for RePlanet Africa, a grassroots organisation committed to tackling climate change and promoting sustainable energy solutions across the African continent.
Email:patricia@replanetafrica.ngo
