Togo strengthens nuclear safety with new legislation
LOMÉ, June 10, 2026 — Togo has taken a decisive step toward reinforcing nuclear safety and radiological risk management by adopting four major laws in its National Assembly on June 9. The landmark decision, made during the third plenary session of the first ordinary session of the year, aligns the country’s regulatory framework with global standards, ensuring robust protection for its people and environment.
The historic session, led by Speaker of Parliament, H.E. Prof. Komi Selom Klassou, welcomed Robert Koffi Messan Eklo, the Minister Delegate for Energy. Lawmakers swiftly approved the four draft laws, paving the way for Togo’s accession to key international conventions: the Nuclear Safety Convention (Vienna, 1994), the Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel and Radioactive Waste Management (1997), the Convention on Early Notification of a Nuclear Accident (1986), and the Convention on Assistance in the Case of a Nuclear Accident or Radiological Emergency (1986).
Four conventions to build a safer nuclear future
«Nuclear energy holds immense potential across critical sectors—electricity generation, healthcare, industry, agriculture, and livestock farming,» noted Aklesso Atcholi, President of the UNIR. «Yet, harnessing its benefits demands an unwavering commitment to safety, ensuring the protection of lives, assets, and ecosystems.»
The adoption of these conventions underscores Togo’s proactive stance in mitigating radiological hazards. By ratifying these texts, the country not only bolsters its domestic preparedness but also gains access to international frameworks for real-time crisis response, mutual assistance, and information sharing.
«These laws reflect a resolute vision: adopting nuclear advancement without compromising security,» declared Minister Eklo. «It signals to the world that Togo is a nation committed to excellence, responsibility, and global best practices.»
Balancing innovation with safety imperatives
Speaker Klassou emphasized the collective responsibility in addressing transboundary crises, drawing lessons from past tragedies. «The lessons of Chernobyl are clear: no nation can confront such risks in isolation,» he stated, framing the conventions within a broader commitment to regional stability and public safety.
Following parliamentary protocol, the four laws will now proceed to the Senate for review and approval in identical terms. Upon final enactment, Togo will finalize a critical institutional transformation, intertwining technological progress with the uncompromising safeguard of its citizens.
