THE RADIATION PROTECTION AUTHORITY INDABA- 4th September 2025
The Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Technology and Science, Eng. Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu officially opened the Awareness and Consultative Meeting on Monitoring Radioactivity in Water and Food Products, held at the Mulungushi International Conference Center in Lusaka.
In attendance were the Radiation Protection Authority Vice Chairperson, Mr. Msafiri Sinkala, the Director General, Boster Siwila, and some senior government officials
Key Highlights:
Milestone Achievement
Mr. Sinkala noted that this is the first-ever INDABA dedicated to radioactivity monitoring in food and water, a critical step in safeguarding public health and well-being.
Commitment to Annual Platform.
The Authority aims to institutionalize the INDABA as an annual platform for dialogue, experience sharing, and knowledge exchange.
Stakeholder Collaboration
He emphasized the importance of collaboration with stakeholders (food manufacturers, transporters, sellers, and users) to ensure certification and safety of food products.
Strengthening Safety Infrastructure
The INDABA provides an opportunity to enhance Zambia’s Radiation Protection and Safety framework in line with regional and international best practices.
Remarks by the Permanent Secretary
Benefits of Nuclear Science
Nuclear science contributes to medicine, agriculture, energy, and industry, but comes with the responsibility of protecting citizens from ionising radiation risks.
Economic Importance of Food Safety
Food safety is both a health issue and an economic imperative, contributing about 20% to GDP and supporting over 70% of rural households through agriculture.
Health Risks from Radioactive Substances
Food and water are direct pathways for radioactive exposure. Ingestion can cause long-term health consequences, making continuous monitoring essential. Trade and Regional Integration
Effective monitoring not only protects citizens but also safeguards agricultural exports, boosting trade within SADC and COMESA.
Government Commitment
Strengthening Capacity
The government is investing in modern laboratories, skilled personnel, and strategic partnerships.
Youth Development
Training the next generation of scientists and technologists will ensure long-term food and water safety.
Safeguarding Future Generations
Dr. Habeenzu emphasized that food and water are the essence of life, and maintaining rigorous monitoring systems is vital for the prosperity of future generations.
Summary of Key Issues:First-ever national platform on radioactivity monitoring.
Strong emphasis on stakeholder collaboration.
Food safety is positioned as both a public health and economic priority.
Government committed to capacity building, research, and youth training.
Monitoring systems are crucial for trade competitiveness and regional integration.
