Minor Radiation Incident at South Africa's Nuclear Plant

Officials Say Public Was Never at Risk

CAPE TOWN: South African officials on Sunday assured the public that recent radioactive contamination incidents at the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station were minor and posed no threat to public health or the environment.

The incidents occurred during scheduled maintenance work at the Koeberg plant, located about 30 kilometres north of Cape Town, between June 30 and July 16. Officials said low levels of airborne radioactive contamination were detected and managed according to established safety procedures.

Eskom chairman Mteto Nyati said the recorded radiation levels were extremely low, describing them as lower than the exposure received from using a mobile phone for a few minutes.

He confirmed that all safety protocols were followed, affected workers underwent testing, and only minimal exposure was recorded. He added that there was no release of radioactive material into the environment and no danger to nearby communities.

Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa said the incidents were handled efficiently and demonstrated the strength of South Africa's nuclear safety systems.

He reassured residents living near the Koeberg plant that the facility remains safe and said the government remains committed to expanding the country's nuclear energy programme. 

Koeberg, Africa's only operational nuclear power plant, has been generating electricity for 40 years. In 2024, its operating licence was extended by another 20 years.

The government said it was being transparent about the incidents as it moves forward with plans to add 5.2 gigawatts of nuclear power capacity by 2042.

South Africa currently relies heavily on coal for electricity generation and is pursuing nuclear energy as part of efforts to diversify its energy mix and meet growing power demand.