On 28 April 2026, loading of fresh nuclear fuel began at power unit 1 of Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant designed by Rosatom. This phase was the first one within the framework of the key commissioning stage of the unit. The event was attended by Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev and Minister of Science and Technology of Bangladesh Fakir Mahbub Anam, who gave symbolic permission to load nuclear fuel into the first power unit of Rooppur NPP.
“Today Bangladesh has joined the club of the countries who use peaceful atom as a reliable source of sustainable development. Rooppur NPP will definitely become the most important element of the energy system of the country. For Rosatom, this project is another important step in developing peaceful nuclear power, strengthening friendly relations with our foreign partners. We are happy that we participate in construction of a modern and reliable nuclear power plant together with our Bangladeshi friends and we can see further prospects of our cooperation,” noted Alexey Likhachev.“
The peaceful utilisation of nuclear energy will play a vital role in ensuring national energy security, accelerating industrialisation and fostering the growth of a technology-driven economy. The Rooppur project stands as a symbol of Bangladesh’s scientific advancement and demonstrates our readiness and capability to harness advanced technologies responsibly and effectively”, highlighted Fakir Mahbub Anam.
Rwanda plans for nuclear energy to supply 60–70% of its electricity needs by 2050, with the first small modular reactor (SMR) of about 110 MW to be commissioned in the early 2030s. Great attention is paid to capacity building: hundreds of future specialists are studying at universities. Following the IAEA Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) mission in March 2026, experts noted Rwanda’s significant progress towards establishing its own nuclear programme.
Gabriel UZABAKIRIHO – KIGALI TIMES