South Africa is seeking new allies for its nuclear power expansion, with Russia and Iran emerging as potential partners.
This move, hinted at by a senior government minister, could strain relations with the United States and complicate efforts to renew a key energy agreement.
Currently home to Africa’s only nuclear power plant, Koeberg, South Africa aims to add 2,500 megawatts of nuclear capacity to address persistent power shortages and advance its transition to cleaner energy.
Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Gwede Mantashe emphasized that the bidding process must remain open to all, including Russia and Iran, stating, “If they present the best offer, we’ll consider it.”
Tensions between South Africa and the U.S. have grown, particularly after former U.S. President Donald Trump froze aid to Pretoria, citing concerns over land expropriation laws.
Trump’s administration also alleged, without concrete evidence, that South Africa was strengthening ties with Iran for commercial, military, and nuclear cooperation—an accusation dismissed by President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office.
Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department has remained silent on whether Russia or Iran could play a role in South Africa’s nuclear ambitions.
The uncertainty adds pressure to ongoing negotiations for a new Section 123 Agreement, which governs U.S. nuclear fuel exports.
The previous agreement, signed in 1997, expired in December 2022, leaving South Africa’s state utility, Eskom, at risk of supply disruptions for the Koeberg plant’s Unit 1, which relies on fuel from U.S.-based Westinghouse.
With Washington’s influence in Africa waning, Russia has aggressively expanded its nuclear energy footprint across the continent, signing agreements with 15 countries.
Moscow’s push into Africa’s nuclear sector is not just about energy—it’s a strategic move to deepen geopolitical influence.
As South Africa weighs its options, the decisions it makes in the coming months could redefine its nuclear energy future and reshape its global alliances.
