Kampala — THE Nuclear Energy Unit has started recruiting engineering graduates. The unit, which is under the energy and mineral development ministry, was set up to explore ways of utilising uranium to generate power in order to reduce loadshedding.

The unit is expected to draw up a long-term sustainable programme for the supply of nuclear fuel and nuclear waste management.

Nine graduates are needed to train in nuclear fuels cycle, nuclear power engineering and radio-isotopes control.

Successful applicants will be sent for further studies abroad.

Micheal Kiza, the head of the unit, said due to availability of uranium resources, peaceful usage of nuclear energy for power generation is important.

"Many countries are not considering going for nuclear energy. Uganda has expressed interest in developing nuclear power generation," he said.

"The advantage of nuclear power generation is security of supply, low carbon and highest energy density compared to other energy sources."

Kiza said in order to meet the country's electricity demand in the long-term, a comprehensive strategy and plan had been formulated.

He said identification of the energy resources mix would be done over time.

Kiza said with the rapid expansion in economic and social activities, the demand for electricity would not be met in the long-term through the existing energy resources.

He said Uganda's biggest limitation is lack of a law for atomic energy applications because without it, it is illegal globally to start talking about nuclear power.