Interview at COP30 — Yaye Catherine Diop, Director of Energy Transition, Ministry of Energy, Petroleum and Mines, Senegal

At the Net Zero Nuclear Pavilion at COP30, we spoke with Yaye Catherine Diop, Director of Energy Transition at Senegal’s Ministry of Energy, Petroleum and Mines, about the country’s decision to join the Declaration to Triple Nuclear Energy and its long-term vision for developing nuclear capabilities under Vision Senegal 2050.

This year at COP30, Senegal became the 33rd signatory to the Declaration to Triple Nuclear Energy by 2050—an important signal of Africa’s growing ambitions in clean energy, industrial development, and scientific innovation.

Diop discussed how nuclear fits into Senegal’s long-term energy strategy, the steps underway to build national scientific and engineering capacity, and the role that international collaboration will play as the country advances its programme.

Key Themes from the Interview

A Vision for African Leadership in Clean Energy

Diop highlighted Deputy Minister Niane’s message that “Africa must stand at the forefront.” Senegal’s decision to join the Declaration reflects a commitment to leadership in shaping Africa’s nuclear future. With domestic oil and gas resources finite, nuclear offers a stable, long-term pathway to energy security, industrialisation, and economic competitiveness.

Building a National Nuclear Programme Under Vision Senegal 2050

Senegal is advancing a structured roadmap to develop nuclear energy, including:

• A national strategy for nuclear deployment to be finalised in early 2026

• A strengthened legal and regulatory framework

• Preparations for small modular reactors (SMRs)

• Plans for a research reactor feasibility study beginning in late 2026

• A newly established nuclear department within the Energy Transition Directorate

These steps reflect Senegal’s commitment to long-term planning—essential for newcomer countries aiming to deploy nuclear safely, responsibly, and efficiently.

Developing Scientific Capacity, Engineering Skills & Innovation

Diop emphasised that Senegal’s nuclear ambitions extend beyond electricity generation. The government is prioritising:

- Growing national scientific and engineering talent

- Developing technological expertise across sectors

- Creating new high-skill jobs

- Reducing electricity production costs, currently among the highest in Africa

- Exploring the responsible use of domestic uranium resources

These capabilities will support long-term economic transformation and strengthen Senegal’s role in Africa’s clean energy landscape.

Why Nuclear Aligns with Senegal’s Energy and Industrial Needs

Nuclear offers the stability, reliability, and long-term performance required for national development. For Senegal, key advantages include:

- 24/7 clean baseload power

- Improved grid stability

- Energy independence

- Competitive electricity costs

- High-temperature steam for industrial processes

These attributes make nuclear an important pillar for the country’s industrial ambitions under Vision Senegal 2050.

The Role of International Collaboration

Diop underscored the need for strong cooperation with international partners, including the IAEA and the World Nuclear Association. These partnerships can help accelerate regulatory development, workforce training, infrastructure planning, and feasibility studies—crucial phases for any emerging nuclear nation.

Accelerating a Programme That Began Over a Decade Ago

Although Senegal began exploring nuclear options as early as 2012, progress slowed. The renewed commitment under Deputy Minister Niang and the creation of a dedicated nuclear directorate are designed to restart and accelerate implementation, backed by a growing cohort of Senegalese nuclear professionals.

Watch the Full Interview

View the full conversation on the World Nuclear Association’s YouTube channel to hear Yaye Catherine Diop’s insights on Senegal’s nuclear ambitions, its strategy for national capacity building, and its leadership role in Africa’s clean-energy transition.