Rosatom, BRICS Nuclear Platform Launch “Atoms Empowering Africa” Contest To Promote Nuclear Development

Russia’s state nuclear corporation Rosatom has announced the launch of the ninth edition of the Atoms Empowering Africa video contest.

The initiative provides young people across Africa with an opportunity to share their perspectives on how nuclear technologies can be used to address pressing development challenges.

This year’s competition places a strong emphasis on cooperation within the BRICS Nuclear Platform.

“The BRICS Nuclear Platform is designed to create new opportunities for collaboration in the peaceful use of nuclear technologies. By linking this year’s Atoms Empowering Africa contest to the Platform, we hope to encourage young Africans to explore how international cooperation can help address real challenges in their countries. Their ideas and perspectives are an important part of building a more innovative and inclusive global nuclear community,” said Elsie Pule, Head Coordinator of the BRICS Nuclear Platform.

Participants are invited to submit short videos explaining how the platform could support sustainable development in their countries.

Entries should focus on one of five topics: The Role of Nuclear Energy in the Future of BRICS Countries, How Nuclear Technologies Improve People’s Lives (with emphasis on non-power applications), Youth and the BRICS Nuclear Platform, Cities and Regions of the BRICS Nuclear Platform, and The BRICS Nuclear Platform: Vision for 2030.

The contest is open to Africans aged 18 to 35.

“Across many African countries, the role of modern nuclear technologies in long-term development is gaining increasing attention—from ensuring reliable energy supply to advancing healthcare and agriculture. The Atoms Empowering Africa contest helps engage a new generation—students, entrepreneurs and young professionals from across the continent—in this important conversation. This year, participants are also encouraged to explore the potential of cooperation within the BRICS Nuclear Platform,” said Ryan Collyer, CEO of Rosatom Central and Southern Africa.

Submissions will be accepted until May 1, after which a jury will evaluate entries based on originality, clarity of presentation, and the relevance of the proposed solutions to specific regions. A maximum of one winner per country will be selected, either as an individual or a team of two.

“For those who want to compete in this year’s contest—don’t take it lightly. It’s a serious competition and once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Emmanuel Adom, one of the 2023 winners from Ghana.

Last year, the contest received 50 submissions, with 13 winners selected from six countries: South Africa, Egypt, Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi and Namibia.