Mbabane– The Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs has begun finalising regulations to operationalise the Nuclear Radiation Safety Act, 2025.
The Minister Hon. Jane Mkhonta- Simelane commissioned the validation of the regulations last month to fast-track implementation of the Act.
The Chief Environmental Coordinator explained that while nuclear technology is increasingly being utilized in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, construction and industry, it must be regulated to ensure public safety and national security.
“Nuclear technology is one of the innovative technologies being exploited in the health sector, agriculture, construction and many other sectors. We have radioactive sources that are moving in and out of the country, and these should be regulated to ensure that while we facilitate business and investment, we also guarantee the safe use of the technology,” the official said.
The regulations will provide the legal framework for implementing the Nuclear Radiation Safety Act, which seeks to protect workers handling radioactive materials, safeguard the public from radiation exposure and strengthen the security of radioactive sources.
Dlamini warned that some radioactive sources could become a serious security threat if they are not properly controlled.
“Some of the sources are highly radioactive and, if improperly secured, can be used for malicious purposes such as dirty bombs,” she said, adding that global concerns have increasingly shifted towards securing radioactive materials used in civilian applications.
She said radioactive technology is already used in various activities, including medical diagnosis and treatment, agriculture, industrial processes and construction. She said therefore the ministry wants every activity involving radioactive materials to be known to the regulator to ensure compliance with safety standards.
To support implementation of the Act, government is in the process of establishing a dedicated nuclear radiation regulatory authority. Consultants are also being procured to assist with refining the draft regulations before they are submitted for enactment.
Dlamini noted that the consultations will conclude on Friday before the draft regulations are refined and assessed for readiness to implement the Nuclear Radiation Safety Act, 2025.
Once adopted, the regulations are expected to strengthen Eswatini’s oversight of radioactive materials, enhance public and environmental protection, improve worker safety and bring the country’s nuclear safety framework in line with international standards governing the peaceful use of nuclear technology.
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