Uganda Embraces CTBT Chief’s Nuclear Disarmament Campaign

Summary:

• Dr. Robert Floyd, Executive Secretary of the CTBT Organization, visited Uganda to garner support against nuclear weapons testing. The Non-Aligned Movement summit in Uganda highlighted global non-proliferation efforts. Uganda, having ratified the CTBT, faces concerns about uranium misuse but commits to peaceful applications.

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Dr. Robert Floyd, Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test-Ban-Treaty (CTBT) Organization, embarked on his inaugural visit to Uganda, seizing the opportunity to rally support against nuclear weapons testing.

Actively engaging in the opening of the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) in Uganda, Dr. Floyd’s presence at the summit is viewed as part of a broader campaign to strengthen global efforts in nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament.

The Non-Aligned Movement played a pivotal role in negotiating the CTBT at the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva, followed by its adoption by the UN General Assembly. This ongoing summit, presided over by President Museveni, aligns with heightened global tensions resulting from the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Israeli conflict in Gaza. Notably, some nations involved in these conflicts have yet to ratify the Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty.

Uganda, housing an International Monitoring System (IMS) facility in Mbarara, ratified the CTBT on March 14, 2001, becoming the second member of the East African Community to do so after Kenya. Despite possessing uranium deposits, a key component in nuclear bombs, Uganda faces global concerns about potential misuse. Nevertheless, the nation asserts its commitment to utilizing these resources exclusively for peaceful applications in planned nuclear power plants.

Dr. Floyd’s three-day visit encompassed a tour of Uganda’s Directorate of Geological Surveys and Mines Department, notably the National Data Center. State Minister for Minerals Peter Lokeris and Ag. Commissioner Geological Survey Department Dr. Fred Tugume guided the visit. The CTBT, prohibiting all nuclear explosions globally, remains a cornerstone in the pursuit of a nuclear-test-free world.

In a recent online briefing, Dr. Floyd underscored the enduring relevance of the CTBT, acknowledging heightened concerns about the use and proliferation of nuclear weapons. Despite challenges, he emphasized the treaty’s significant contribution to global peace, security, and disarmament.

Over the past two years, nine countries, including the recent ratification by Sri Lanka, have committed to the test ban treaty. Out of 197 signatories, only nine countries are yet to sign the Treaty, signaling a growing global movement against nuclear testing.

Africa, with unanimous support from its 54 states, plays a crucial role in CTBT verification, hosting the largest number of IMS facilities. As the CTBT organization works towards completing 38 IMS facilities in 24 African states, the continent stands at the forefront of the worldwide effort to ban nuclear weapon testing.

In his brief speech, Dr. Floyd praised the ministry’s work on Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), emphasizing that such efforts strengthen the CTBT and contribute to a safer and more secure world for everyone. He acknowledged the often overlooked but crucial work carried out by the ministry, expressing his pleasure at the pride they take in their accomplishments.

“Together, we can build a safer and better world for present and future generations. I am proud of you for your accomplishments and your ongoing efforts,” remarked Dr. Floyd, expressing anticipation for continued collaboration, training, and joint efforts towards a brighter future for Uganda.

The CTBTO is an international organization tasked with implementing the CTBT, which prohibits all nuclear explosions, whether for military or peaceful purposes.

State Minister for Energy and Mineral Development Peter Lokeris highlighted the role of the CTBTO in testing nuclear facilities and monitoring earthquake tremors, crucial for early warnings. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of nuclear facilities used in everyday life, including hospitals, agriculture, and schools.

Lokeris explained that nuclear facilities, when enriched beyond energy production, become hazardous. He stressed the environmentally friendly aspect of using nuclear energy for power generation and mentioned Uganda’s plans to start generating 1000 megawatts from nuclear power by 2031. President Museveni had earlier expressed the government’s intention to exploit uranium deposits for peaceful purposes.

Table: Key Points from Dr. Robert Floyd’s Speech

Key Points	Details
Commendation for NDCs work	Praises Uganda’s efforts on Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Collaboration with CTBTO	Encourages continued collaboration, training, and joint efforts for a better future.
CTBTO’s Role in Nuclear Testing Monitoring	Highlights the CTBTO’s role in testing nuclear facilities and earthquake tremors.
Uganda’s Plans for Nuclear Power Generation	Outlines Uganda’s aim to generate 1000 MW from nuclear power by 2031.
Environmental Benefits of Nuclear Power	Stresses the environmentally friendly nature of nuclear power for energy generation.