John Dramani Mahama initiates talks with Rosatom for nuclear power plant

President John Dramani Mahama has announced that Ghana has entered preliminary discussions with Russia’s state-owned nuclear corporation, Rosatom, to establish the country's first nuclear power station. Speaking at the Third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow, the President stated that this initiative is a key component of a strategic plan to diversify Ghana’s energy mix. The move aims to provide the reliable and affordable electricity necessary to sustain rapid industrial growth and meet the demands of a growing population.

The proposed collaboration with Rosatom builds on decades of historical engagement between Ghana and Russia in the field of nuclear energy. President Mahama emphasized that a nuclear facility is essential for Ghana’s long-term development goals, noting that stable power is the backbone of industrialization. Rosatom’s Chief Executive, Alexei Likhachev, confirmed the discussions, indicating that Ghana is among several African nations, including Egypt, Ethiopia, and Uganda, exploring large-scale nuclear power projects with the Russian corporation.

Beyond energy, the President used the summit to advocate for deeper economic ties, inviting Russian investors to explore opportunities in Ghana’s agricultural and digital sectors. He also called for the elimination of trade barriers and suggested the use of local currencies to facilitate commerce between Africa and Russia. Mahama expressed gratitude for Russia’s historical support in Africa’s decolonization and urged international cooperation to resolve global conflicts and combat terrorism.

While the talks remain in the preliminary stages and have not yet been formalized into a final agreement, they represent a significant step in Ghana’s proactive energy strategy. The project is intended to align with Ghana’s participation in the West African Power Pool, potentially positioning the country as a central hub for regional electricity integration. By leveraging Russia’s extensive nuclear expertise, the government seeks to secure a sustainable energy future that can insulate the national economy from global energy price fluctuations.