South Africa stands at a crucial crossroad. The deepening energy crisis has illuminated gaps in our infrastructure, tempting the Government of National Unity (GNU) towards nuclear energy. Despite public opposition and civil society efforts to defeat the $76 billion (R1.4 trillion) Zuma-Russia nuclear deal, the government seems to ignore public sentiment against nuclear energy.
For some, nuclear energy emerges as a potential stable and “clean” supply of electricity. However, deeper examination reveals this could be disastrous, especially concerning the climate crisis and corruption and for socio-economic development.
Splitting atoms promises continuous power with less carbon emissions than coal. Nevertheless, several critical considerations raise doubts about its suitability for South Africa.
First, the massive cost implications are prohibitive. Nuclear