In a significant development for Ghana’s energy sector, President John Mahama has announced the appointment of Prof. Francis Otoo as the acting Director-General of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA). This announcement marks a pivotal moment for the NRA, the key body responsible for overseeing and regulating nuclear activities within the country, working closely alongside the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission.
Francis Otoo’s appointment, detailed below, signals a renewed focus on the safe and responsible application of nuclear technology in Ghana.
President John Mahama’s decision to appoint Francis Otoo, previously a Chief Research Scientist at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, places a seasoned expert at the helm of the NRA. The appointment, making Otoo the acting Director-General, was formally communicated in a letter signed by Callistus Mahama, Secretary to the President, extending congratulations to Prof. Otoo.
This decision is grounded in the legal framework established by Article 195(1) of the 1992 Constitution and further reinforced by Section 15(1) of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority Act, 2015 (Act 895). These legal provisions underscore the government’s commitment to a structured and regulated approach to nuclear energy.
The appointment of Francis Otoo is subject to standard procedural steps. It awaits the advice of the Authority’s Governing Board, as well as input from the Public Services Commission. Prof. Otoo has been formally requested to confirm his acceptance of the position within seven days, initiating the final stages of his appointment.
The Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA) plays a crucial role in Ghana, with a mandate to regulate and control the peaceful applications of nuclear energy and radioactive materials. This includes ensuring safety and security in all nuclear activities, aligning with international standards and obligations set forth by organizations like the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The NRA’s work is vital for protecting public health and the environment while fostering responsible innovation in the nuclear sector.
The appointment of Prof. Francis Otoo to lead the Nuclear Regulatory Authority represents a significant step forward for nuclear regulation in Ghana. With a solid legal foundation and a renewed emphasis on safety and international collaboration, the NRA is poised to continue its vital work under Prof. Otoo’s guidance.
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