AMSSNuR continues its efforts to strengthen nuclear and radiological safety and security.
The Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR) recently held its 8th board of directors session, which featured a detailed presentation of the agency’s achievements and ambitions, presided over by the Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Leila Benali.
The Minister emphasized the strategic role of AMSSNuR in enhancing nuclear and radiological safety and security, in line with the most rigorous international standards. She highlighted ongoing efforts to implement Law No. 142-12, which governs these areas, and commended Morocco’s commitment to modernizing its regulatory framework. She particularly noted the mission of the Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) hosted in November 2023, which resulted in the formulation of 19 recommendations, 6 suggestions, and 4 good practices.
Regarding international cooperation, the Minister mentioned the signing of a framework cooperation program with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for the period 2024-2029, endowed with a budget of 3 million euros, aimed at implementing nine priority projects. This program’s goal is to bolster nuclear and radiological safety and security.
Review of Achievements and Progress
AMSSNuR’s Director General, Saïd Mouline, presented an impressive account of the agency’s activities for the years 2023 and 2024. He highlighted the progress made in regulatory missions, notably in terms of licensing, inspection, and oversight. He also underscored the intensification of bilateral and multilateral relations, leading to the establishment of the African School of Regulatory Authorities in partnership with the IAEA. This initiative exemplifies AMSSNuR’s leadership at the African level.
Since 2021, AMSSNuR has accelerated the adoption of regulatory texts, having published six regulations and with four others currently under approval. In 2024, the agency issued 2,658 permits, an increase of 25% compared to 2023, and conducted 240 inspections covering 850 facilities that utilize ionizing radiation sources in the health, agriculture, and industrial sectors.
Capacity Building and International Cooperation
AMSSNuR has also strengthened its cooperation with the European Commission and the Belgian Institute of Radioelements (IRE-Lab) to develop the national radiological monitoring network, “ELMARSAD.” Internally, the agency has implemented a specialized training program to develop highly skilled experts, thereby ensuring the sustainability of this expertise and the quality of regulatory oversight in nuclear and radiological safety and security.
Unanimous Support for the Future
The board members unanimously praised AMSSNuR’s achievements and ambitions, stressing the need to maintain and expand support for the agency to enhance its effectiveness and contribute to Morocco’s socio-economic policies. This eighth board session demonstrates the agency’s determination to continue its efforts to ensure a safe and sustainable development of the nuclear sector in the country.
By consolidating its regulatory foundations and strengthening its international cooperation, AMSSNuR positions itself as a key player in the nuclear and radiological sector in Morocco, contributing to ensuring safety and security in this strategic field.
