- South Africa’s Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has thrown its weight behind the Request For Information (RFI) as released by South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) on Sunday, 06 February 2021.
- In September 2021, the cabinet approved the acquisition and construction of a new Multipurpose Research Reactor to replace the current SAFARI-1 nuclear research reactor, owned and operated by Necsa, located at Pelindaba, near Pretoria.
The DMRE believes that this project will ensure South Africa remains amongst the top four global radioisotopes producers as well as ensuring continuation of research and development on nuclear technology. This places Necsa on a path to provide much needed radioactive isotopes for medical and industrial applications, execution of research through beam lines, bolster massive infrastructure development and create thousands of sustainable jobs which are essential for our economy.
SAFARI-1 has been operating since 1965 and is scheduled for decommissioning in 2030. In 2018, the plant was shut down by the auditor general due to safety concerns. Read more
This research reactor has placed South Africa among global leading producers of medical radioisotopes used to diagnose and treat illnesses such as cancer. Replacing SAFARI-1 with Multipurpose Research Reactor will make sure that the country continues its legacy for peaceful use of nuclear technology for socioeconomic development.
The Department emphasises that the RFI is the information-gathering and market-testing exercise only and is NOT a competitive tender. Therefore, the information provided will not be used as a basis for awarding a contract or order, or preclude a supplier’s participation in a competitive tender.
Link to tender documents HERE
Author: GAB News Desk
Source: DMRE
