AFCONE Commemorates the 16th Anniversary of the Entry into Force of the Treaty of Pelindaba

Delegates at the 16th Anniversary Commemoration of the Treaty of Pelindaba, Pretoria, South Africa – 30 July 2025.

The Treaty of Pelindaba, also known as the African Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone Treaty, stands as a cornerstone of Africa’s enduring commitment to peace, security, and the peaceful use of nuclear energy. The Treaty prohibits the development, manufacturing, testing, and possession of nuclear weapons across the African continent, ensuring that nuclear science and technology are used solely for peaceful purposes.

Adopted in Cairo, Egypt, on 11 April 1996 and entered into force on 15 July 2009 the Treaty of Pelindaba reflects Africa’s firm dedication to nuclear disarmament and to advancing the safe and responsible use of nuclear energy for sustainable development. To date, the Treaty has been signed by 52 of the 55 African States and ratified by 44 countries, reinforcing Africa’s united stand for a world free of nuclear weapons.

The 16th Anniversary of the Entry into Force of the Treaty of Pelindaba was commemorated at a gala event in Pretoria, South Africa, celebrating decades of progress in promoting nuclear non-proliferation, disarmament, and peaceful nuclear applications across the continent.

The celebration brought together leaders, policymakers, and strategic partners from across Africa and beyond to reflect on the remarkable journey of the African Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone and to reaffirm a shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous future.

The momentous occasion featured addresses from various prominent regional and international speakers representing partner organizations and member states.

For over a decade and a half, the Treaty of Pelindaba has remained a symbol of African unity, peace, and technological progress, serving as both an instrument of nuclear security and a catalyst for innovation and sustainable development through the peaceful use of nuclear science and technology.

As Africa celebrates this milestone, AFCONE reaffirms its commitment to strengthening cooperation, advancing peaceful nuclear applications, and ensuring that Africa continues to stand as a beacon of disarmament and security in the global nuclear landscape.

 Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Republic of South Africa

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa, H.E. Mr. Ronald Lamola, was represented by Ms. Kgaugelo Mogashoa, Director for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO).

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa, H.E. Mr. Ronald Lamola, was represented by Ms. Kgaugelo Mogashoa, Director for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), who reaffirmed South Africa’s strong support for the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE) and its efforts to promote nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, and the peaceful applications of nuclear energy across the African continent.

South Africa remains firmly committed to democracy, sustainable development, social justice, and environmental protection. In line with this commitment, the Government has adopted policies that advance global peace and security through the elimination and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, underscoring its enduring dedication to a world free of nuclear threats.

The AFCONE Chairperson 

H.E. Mr. Gaspard Liyoko Mboyo, Chairperson of AFCONE, delivering remarks at the 16th Anniversary of the Treaty of Pelindaba, Pretoria.

The AFCONE Chairperson, H.E. Mr. Gaspard Liyoko Mboyo, in his address, highlighted the Treaty of Pelindaba as a cornerstone of Africa’s Peace and Security Architecture. He emphasized that the ratification and implementation of the Treaty have already begun to yield tangible results — reducing the risk of nuclear conflict, minimizing the potential for mass destruction, and fostering a safer and more secure regional environment.

“The African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE) stands proud as the custodian of the Pelindaba Treaty,” said H.E. Mr. Mboyo. “The Secretariat continues to rise to the occasion, playing a vital role in promoting peace and ensuring the safe, secure, and peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology in Africa.”

Chairperson of the 6^th Conference of States Parties 

H.E. Mr. Ishagh Mohamed Moussa, Chairperson of the AFCONE Conference of States Parties (CSP), at the 16th Anniversary of the Treaty of Pelindaba, Pretoria.

During the AFCONE 16th Anniversary Commemoration of the Entry into Force of the Treaty of Pelindaba, H.E. Mr. Ishagh Mohamed Moussa, Chairperson of the 6th Conference of States Parties (CSP), reaffirmed Africa’s unwavering commitment to maintaining a nuclear-weapon-free continent. He paid tribute to the courage and vision of African leaders who laid the foundation for the Pelindaba Treaty, emphasizing its enduring importance as a pillar of Africa’s peace and security architecture. The Treaty, he noted, represents Africa’s collective determination to prohibit the development, testing, and possession of nuclear weapons.

H.E. Mr. Moussa commended the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE) for its progress in promoting regional cooperation, monitoring compliance, and advancing the peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology for socio-economic development. He acknowledged the continued efforts of the AFCONE Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson in restoring institutional stability following recent challenges, enabling the Secretariat to effectively fulfill its mandate under the Treaty of Pelindaba.

In his remarks, H.E. Mr. Moussa urged all African States that have not yet ratified or acceded to the Treaty to do so, to further strengthen regional peace, security, and development. He expressed appreciation to the African Union Commission and Africa’s international partners for their steadfast support of AFCONE’s mission. Concluding his address, he encouraged States Parties to remain committed to their obligations and to work collectively toward the vision of a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Africa, free from nuclear weapons.

AFCONE Vice-Chairperson and Interim Executive Secretary 

Remarks by H.E. Mr. Ahmed Bezeid Deida, Vice-Chairperson and Acting Executive Secretary of the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE).

H.E. Mr. Ahmed Bezeid Deida, Acting Executive Secretary of the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE), expressed appreciation for the dedication and hard work of the AFCONE Secretariat.

“The 16th Anniversary celebration is a testament to the Secretariat’s resilience and enduring support to African Member States and partners. The African Secretariat remains steadfast in its mission to transform lives and catalyze growth across the continent through the peaceful application of nuclear energy,” said Mr. Deida.

He reiterated the transformative potential of nuclear energy in addressing Africa’s energy challenges, noting that more than 600 million people on the continent still lack access to electricity. He emphasized that harnessing nuclear science and technology offers a sustainable pathway to bridge this gap, stimulate socio-economic development, and advance the objectives of both the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA)

Mr. William D. Magwood IV, Director-General of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), addressing the AFCONE 16th Anniversary of the Treaty of Pelindaba virtually, 15 July 2025.

Mr. William D. Magwood IV, Director-General of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), addressed the 16th Anniversary Commemoration of the Treaty of Pelindaba virtually and congratulated AFCONE on this important milestone.

“The NEA is pleased to work with AFCONE and to cooperate with African States in deploying nuclear energy to restore energy security and address climate change,” said Mr. Magwood.

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Division for Africa

Mr. Gashaw Gebeyehu Wolde, Acting Director, Division for Africa, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), delivers remarks during the AFCONE 16th Anniversary Commemoration of the Entry into Force of the Treaty of Pelindaba, held in Pretoria, South Africa, on 15 July 2025.

Mr. Gashaw Gebeyehu Wolde, Acting Director, Division for Africa at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), emphasized the importance of the Treaty of Pelindaba as a symbol of peace for Africa.

“The Pelindaba Treaty stands as Africa’s symbol of peace. The IAEA cooperates with AFCONE through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote nuclear science and technology among African Member States,” said Mr. Gashaw.

Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI)

Mr. Scott Roecker, Vice President of the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI), delivers remarks during the AFCONE 16th Anniversary Commemoration of the Entry into Force of the Treaty of Pelindaba, held in Pretoria, South Africa, on 15 July 2025.

Mr. Scott Roecker, Vice President of the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI), congratulated African Member States and the AFCONE Secretariat on the celebration of the 16th Anniversary of the Treaty of Pelindaba.

“I congratulate African Member States and the AFCONE Secretariat on this milestone. The Treaty of Pelindaba stands as a shining example of a robust framework for reducing nuclear risks. It is a successful model of regional cooperation that can be leveraged to strengthen collaboration on nuclear security,” said Mr. Roecker.

Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP)

Ms. Elena K. Sokova, Executive Director of the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP), delivers remarks during the AFCONE 16th Anniversary Commemoration of the Entry into Force of the Treaty of Pelindaba, held in Pretoria, South Africa, on 15 July 2025.

Ms. Elena K. Sokova, Executive Director of the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation (VCDNP), highlighted ongoing collaboration between VCDNP and AFCONE in advancing the peaceful uses of nuclear energy in Africa.

“VCDNP has organized a series of African Dialogues in coordination with AFCONE to explore how peaceful uses of nuclear energy can be scaled up in Africa, with particular emphasis on preparing for the deployment of Advanced and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). Through a collaborative approach, we support African States in making informed decisions about their energy future, while ensuring the highest standards of safety, security, and non-proliferation,” said Ms. Sokova.

International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN)

Hon. Melissa Parke, Executive Director of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), addresses the occasion, congratulating AFCONE and African Member States on the 16th Anniversary of the Treaty of Pelindaba.

“Nuclear weapons are the most inhumane and indiscriminate weapons ever created. They violate international law, inflict devastating environmental damage, undermine national and global security, and divert vast public resources away from meeting essential human needs. The total elimination of nuclear weapons is not only urgent — it is a moral, and humanitarian imperative.”

Institute of Nuclear Materials Management (INMM) Africa Chapter 

Prof. Mustafa Kofi, President of the Institute of Nuclear Materials Management (INMM) Africa Chapter, delivers remarks during the AFCONE 16th Anniversary Commemoration of the Entry into Force of the Treaty of Pelindaba, held in Pretoria, South Africa, on 15 July 2025.

Prof. Mostafa Kofi, President of the Institute of Nuclear Materials Management (INMM) Africa Chapter, highlighted INMM’s shared vision with AFCONE in promoting innovation and excellence in nuclear security and safeguards.

“INMM’s global mission is to promote best practices in nuclear material management. We share this vision with AFCONE, as we all strive for innovation in nuclear security and safeguards. We look forward to continued collaboration and partnership with AFCONE,” said Prof. Kofi.

International Science and Technology Centre (ISTC)

Dr. Karina Anguelieva, Executive Director of the International Science and Technology Centre (ISTC), delivers remarks during the AFCONE 16th Anniversary Commemoration of the Entry into Force of the Treaty of Pelindaba, held in Pretoria, South Africa, on 15 July 2025.

Dr. Karina Anguelieva, Executive Director of the International Science and Technology Centre (ISTC), extended her congratulations to AFCONE on the 16th Anniversary Commemoration of the Treaty of Pelindaba.

“I am delighted to congratulate AFCONE on the 16th Anniversary of the Pelindaba Treaty. The ISTC is proud to work with AFCONE to advance global peace and prosperity by supporting civilian science,” said Dr. Anguelieva.

Office of the Legal Counsel of the African Union Commission (AUC)

Mr. Jonathan Obwogi, Legal Associate at the Office of the Legal Counsel of the African Union Commission (AUC), explains the ratification process during the AFCONE 16th Anniversary Commemoration of the Entry into Force of the Treaty, held in Pretoria, South Africa, on 15 July 2025.

Mr. Jonathan Obwogi, Legal Associate at the Office of the Legal Counsel (OLC) of the African Union Commission (AUC), delivered legal briefing on the Treaty of Pelindaba on behalf of the Office of the Legal Counsel.

Speaking in his capacity as legal advisor, Mr. Obwogi emphasized the importance of ratification, adherence, and domestication of the Treaty and related legal instruments, noting that these actions are essential to give full legal effect to Africa’s nuclear obligations at the national level. He outlined the ratification process within the African Union framework, highlighting the role of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission as the Depositary of the Treaty of Pelindaba, responsible for receiving and maintaining the instruments of ratification.

Mr. Obwogi urged the remaining African States that have not yet ratified the Treaty to complete the process within their national legal systems, emphasizing that this would strengthen Africa’s leadership in nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, while reinforcing regional peace and security.

South African Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE)

Ms. Elsie Monale, Chief Director at the South African Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), delivers remarks during the AFCONE 16th Anniversary Commemoration of the Entry into Force of the Treaty of Pelindaba, held in Pretoria, South Africa, on 15 July 2025.

Ms. Elsie Monale, Chief Director at the South African Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), highlighted South Africa’s continued collaboration and support to AFCONE.

“The South African Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has actively supported AFCONE through various initiatives over the years. Notably, the DMRE and NECSA serve as the Regional Collaborating Centre (RCC) for AFCONE’s safeguards programme. This support includes analytical services, research, technology standardization, and the organization of training activities,” said Ms. Monale.

Prof. Jo-Ansie van Wyk, Research Professor of International Politics at the University of South Africa (UNISA)

Prof. Jo-Ansie van Wyk, Research Professor of International Politics at the University of South Africa (UNISA), delivers remarks on Africa’s responsibility to uphold the vision of the Treaty of Pelindaba during the AFCONE 16th Anniversary Commemoration of its Entry into Force, held in Pretoria, South Africa, on 15 July 2025.

Prof. Jo-Ansie van Wyk, from the University of South Africa (UNISA), highlighted the significance of the Treaty of Pelindaba as a cornerstone of Africa’s commitment to peace and security.

“The Treaty of Pelindaba declared Africa a zone free from nuclear weapons and provides for the promotion of cooperation in the peaceful application of nuclear energy. It calls for complete disarmament by African States and aims to enhance both regional and global peace and security,” said Prof. van Wyk.

In addition, Prof. van Wyk delivered a powerful address emphasizing the collective responsibility of Africans to ensure that the continent and indeed the world remains free from nuclear weapons.

South African Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA)

South African Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA)

Mr. Dumisani Maluleke, representative of the South African Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA), emphasized the importance of the Treaty of Pelindaba in strengthening Africa’s peace and security architecture.

“The Treaty of Pelindaba plays a crucial role in advancing disarmament and non-proliferation efforts, thereby promoting a safer and more secure continent,” said Mr. Maluleke.

South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA)

Mr. Ayanda Myoli of the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA) delivers remarks on AFCONE–NECSA collaboration to strengthen nuclear safeguards in Africa during the AFCONE 16th Anniversary Commemoration of the Treaty of Pelindaba, held in Pretoria, South Africa, on 15 July 2025.

Mr. Ayanda Myoli, representing the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA), highlighted the organization’s continued collaboration with AFCONE.

“The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA) actively collaborates with AFCONE on a five-year programme aimed at strengthening nuclear safeguards in Africa. The programme focuses on improving nuclear material control measures and supporting the development of effective systems for safeguards, accounting, and control of nuclear materials,” said Mr. Myoli.

African Young Generation in Nuclear (AYGN)

Mr. Velenkosini Mjadu, Secretary-General of the African Young Generation in Nuclear (AYGN), delivers remarks on youth empowerment and knowledge transfer in nuclear science during the AFCONE 16th Anniversary Commemoration of the Treaty of Pelindaba, held in Pretoria, South Africa, on 15 July 2025.

Mr. Velenkosini Mjadu, Secretary-General of the African Young Generation in Nuclear (AYGN), representing the President of AYGN, highlighted the organization’s alignment with AFCONE’s vision.

“AYGN is a network of young professionals that promotes socio-economic development through nuclear science and technology. Our vision mirrors that of AFCONE, as we strive to empower the public and facilitate knowledge transfer from the current generation to the next,” said Mr. Mjadu.

African Nuclear Law Association (ANLA)

Mr. Nkazimulo Moyeni, President of the African Nuclear Law Association (ANLA), delivers remarks on strengthening nuclear law and governance in Africa during the AFCONE 16th Anniversary Commemoration in Pretoria, South Africa, on 15 July 2025.

The African Nuclear Law Association (ANLA) is a continental platform that promotes the role of nuclear law and governance in advancing Africa’s sustainable development. It unites legal professionals, policymakers, regulators, academics, and industry stakeholders committed to ensuring that nuclear energy across the continent is developed, regulated, and used safely, securely, and peacefully for the benefit of all Africans.

ANLA’s mission is to strengthen legal capacity, foster knowledge exchange, and provide policy guidance to support African States in addressing the complexities of nuclear law while aligning with international standards and best practices. The Association also plays an active role in facilitating dialogue between policymakers and industry, promoting compliance with regional and global nuclear obligations, and contributing to the development of sound legislative and regulatory frameworks.

Delivering the statement, Mr. Nkazimulo Moyeni, President of the African Nuclear Law Association (ANLA), expressed appreciation for the collaboration with the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE), noting that this partnership enhances ANLA’s ability to achieve its goals and contributes to building a safe, secure, and prosperous nuclear future for Africa.

AFCONE Excellence Awards 2025: Recognizing Pioneers in Africa’s Peaceful Nuclear Advancement

As part of the 16th Anniversary Commemoration of the Treaty of Pelindaba, the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE) introduced the Outstanding Performance Awards to honor individuals and institutions making remarkable contributions to Africa’s peaceful nuclear development.

The initiative underscores AFCONE’s commitment to promoting a culture of excellence, innovation, and leadership in nuclear science, security, and governance across the continent.

The Outstanding Performance Awards, presented during the 16th Anniversary Celebration of the Treaty of Pelindaba, aim to recognize and celebrate exceptional commitment, hard work, and positive contributions to Africa’s nuclear sector. These awards serve to inspire both the recipients and other Africans to pursue excellence in advancing the vision and principles of the Pelindaba Treaty. Award Categories 

• AFCONE 2025 Africa Nuclear Energy Excellence Award

• AFCONE 2025 Africa Nuclear Woman Excellence Award

• AFCONE 2025 Africa Nuclear Young Professional Excellence Award

• AFCONE 2025 Africa Nuclear Advocacy Excellence Award

The Judges

Left to right: Dr. David Otwoma, Dr. Marius Tchonang Pokaha, Dr. Margaret Chege, Kenyatta, Eng Christabel Ekeocha, Dr. Nafiu Salihu Abubakar, Dr. Innocent Lugendo.

The Winners

AFCONE 2025 African Women in Nuclear Excellence Award

AFCONE 2025 African Nuclear Young Professional Excellence

AFCONE 2025 African Nuclear Energy Outstanding Performance Award

AFCONE 2025 African Nuclear Advocacy Excellence Award