Dr Chilufya calls for harnessing of nuclear science

Health Minister Chitalu Chilufya says significant strides have been made in reviewing the ionizing radiation protection Act in order to protect the public from harmful radiation effects.

Dr Chilufya says this has been backed by the Russian Radiation Authority and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Speaking when he officiated at the mid-term project coordination meeting of the regional project for radiation member states in Lusaka, Dr. Chilufya has urged all IAEA member states to embrace nuclear science technologies to improve various sectors, while ensuring that its harmful effects do not affect life.

He says nuclear energy can be used to enhance development in any country’s economy because it is sustainable and clean.

The Minister has further urged member states to harness nuclear science to improve diagnostic and therapeutic interventions in various institutions.

He states that it is therefore, important for technocrats to embark on research and use findings to inform government’s policy directions.

Speaking earlier, IAEA Program management officer for the African Division Muhammed Abdul-Malik says there is urgent need for IAEA member states to enhance technologies in cancer treatment because it has proven to be deadlier than many other diseases including HIV.

Mr. Abdul-Malik notes that so far, Zambia through the Radiation Protection Authority (RPA) has made good progress in nuclear sciences and hopes that Zambia becomes a leading example to the entire African continent in the next five years.