South Africa is seeking new alliances to expand its nuclear power capacity, with Russia and Iran emerging as potential partners. This development comes as the country aims to add 2,500 megawatts of nuclear capacity to alleviate power cuts and transition towards a greener future.

Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Gwede Mantashe emphasized that South Africa cannot exclude countries like Iran or Russia from bidding on nuclear projects.

However, analysts warn that partnering with these nations could exacerbate tensions with the United States and complicate efforts to renew a crucial energy agreement.

The US has been closely monitoring South Africa’s relationships with Iran and Russia, particularly after President Donald Trump froze aid to the country citing concerns over a new land expropriation law. Despite this, South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has denied any nuclear-related cooperation with Iran.

South Africa’s nuclear expansion plans have been delayed due to legal challenges, and the country is still negotiating a new civilian nuclear pact with the US, known as a Section 123 Agreement.

Without this agreement, South Africa’s power utility, Eskom, may face difficulties sourcing reactor fuel from US-based Westinghouse.

The US influence in Africa wanes, and new players like China and Russia are increasing their presence on the continent. Russia has been aggressively expanding its nuclear energy sector in Africa, forging agreements with 15 countries, and positioning itself as a key partner in solving Africa’s energy challenges.