On 25 March 2025 the Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa together with the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) celebrated 60 years of the South African Fundamental Atomic Research Installation (SAFARI-1) and its contribution to medical and industrial isotopes that save lives of cancer patients and solve problems for humanity using nuclear technology.
In his keynote address, Minister Ramokgopa highlighted the role that SAFARI-1 has played in positioning South Africa centrally among fellow pioneers using nuclear energy for peaceful means. He said, “SAFARI-1 has been a cornerstone of South Africa’s nuclear research and innovation for six decades. Its contribution to medical science, particularity in the production of life-saving isotopes for cancer diagnostics and treatment, has had a profound impact locally and globally.”
Necsa Board Chairperson Mr David Nicholls commented further: “Sixty year ago, when SAFARI- was commissioned, few could have predicted the pivotal role it would play in shaping South Africa’s nuclear landscape. Over the decades, it has been key to nuclear research, providing life-saving isotopes, driving industrial development and advancing scientific discovery.”
Mr Loyiso Tyabashe, Necsa Group CEO, said: “For six decades, SAFARI-1 has been a symbol of scientific excellence, technological advancement, and national pride. Necsa, as the custodian of the precious asset called SAFARI-1, is proud to witness how this nuclear installation has evolved from pure research into solving real problems for humanity in medicine, agriculture, industry, environmental concerns and making the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation a sustainable organisation with global impact.
“We acknowledge that we have reached the milestone of 60 years due to deliberate and courageous decisions of leaders who came before us, their proper planning, focus on skills development, and international collaborations but, most importantly, the dedication of our employees who have stayed the course even through tough times, ensuring continued compliance with regulatory requirements.”
Director General of Nuclear Energy at the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, Mr Zizamele Mbambo, also graced the event and commented on the importance of SAFARI-1 in furthering the policy priorities of government in developing nuclear technology, “Nuclear science and technology remain vital for South Africa’s progress. SAFARI-1 has advanced research and innovation and has played a crucial role in improving healthcare and driving economic growth in our country.”
In addition, congratulatory messages were received from the Deputy Minister of the Department of Electricity and Energy, Ms Samantha Graham Maré who lauded SAFARI-1 for its life-saving initiatives that have given life and hope to cancer patients around the globe and have highlighted South Africa’s nuclear science capabilities. Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Mr Rafael Mariano Grossi and the World Nuclear Association’s Director-General, Dr Sama Bilbao y Leon shared congratulatory messages virtually, extending their support to South Africa’s nuclear strategy.
Other functions of SAFARI-1 include neutron activation analyses, material modification- Neutron Transmutation Doping of Silicon neutron radiography and neutron diffraction for both industrial and academic interest. Silicon irradiated at SAFARI-1 is a key component in product development associated with semiconductor industries such integrated circuits used in computers, motor vehicles, home appliances, cell phones, smart TVs and similar.
South Africa’s nuclear research reactor, SAFARI-1, a cornerstone of South Africa's nuclear research capabilities and the heart of Necsa, which employs over 1 500 staff, has since 1994 made significant strides, particularly in the areas of radioisotope production, research and development, and international collaboration.
For more information visit: www.necsa.co.za
