The Burkinabé Atomic Energy Agency (ABEA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Communication, Culture, Arts, and Tourism, organized a two-day training session on nuclear technology for media professionals. The session, held in Ouagadougou from September 30 to October 1, 2026, aimed to strengthen the knowledge of communication and media actors on ABEA's missions and areas of intervention. The training covered various topics related to nuclear technology, including its applications in socio-economic development.

The training sessions focused on several key areas, including the nuclear energy program, job opportunities, nuclear law, and nuclear safety and security issues. The role of journalists and communicators in disseminating reliable information on these subjects was also emphasized. The ABEA initiative seeks to promote more accessible and rigorous communication on nuclear technology. The agency was established in 2024 to contribute to the development and monitoring of national policies and strategies in the nuclear field.

The training was divided into two phases, with the first phase targeting Directors of Communication and Press Relations (DCRP) from September 28 to 29. The second phase, which took place from September 30 to October 1, brought together journalists at the Burkinabé Agency for Cinematography and Audiovisual (ABCA). The participants were engaged in discussions and exchanges on various nuclear technology-related topics.

At the closing ceremony, Lido Thierno, representing the participating journalists, praised the quality of the exchanges, stating that they had gained a better understanding of the realities of nuclear technology. He expressed confidence that the participants were now better equipped to inform the public on nuclear and atomic issues.

Ouarma Salifou, Secretary General of ABEA, representing the Director General, emphasized the need for accurate, educational, balanced, and fact-based information on nuclear technology. He announced the establishment of a network of journalists engaged in reporting on nuclear technology, which will serve as a permanent framework for exchange, monitoring, and capacity building.

Drissa Sessouma, Director General of Communication and Media, representing the Minister of Communication, urged media professionals to approach nuclear issues with rigor and pedagogy. He stressed that the understanding of these technologies by the population is crucial for their appropriation and effective integration into the country's development.

The training session is part of ABEA's efforts to promote nuclear technology and build a network of informed journalists who can provide accurate and reliable information to the public. The agency's initiatives aim to contribute to the development of Burkina Faso's nuclear sector and enhance public awareness and understanding of nuclear technology.

Key points

  • The Burkinabé Atomic Energy Agency (ABEA) organized a training session on nuclear technology for media professionals to enhance their understanding and reporting on related issues.
  • The training covered various topics, including nuclear energy programs, job opportunities, nuclear law, and nuclear safety and security issues.
  • A network of journalists engaged in reporting on nuclear technology was established to promote accurate and reliable information on the subject.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.