Zambia Strengthens Radiation Safety with Launch of Statutory Instrument No. 52 of 2025
The Radiation Protection Authority has launched Statutory Instrument (SI) No. 52 of 2025 – the Ionising Radiation Protection (General) (Amendment) Regulations – at a ceremony held at Southern Sun Hotel in Lusaka.
The event was officiated by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Technology and Science, Eng. Dr Brilliant Habeenzu, who described the development as a vital step in Zambia’s ongoing commitment to public safety and environmental stewardship.
“We are gathered to officially launch and operationalise the Ionising Radiation Protection (General) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025, which were gazetted on 25 July 2025 as Statutory Instrument No. 52 of 2025. This marks an important milestone in safeguarding our people, workers, and environment from the potential hazards of ionising radiation,” Dr Habeenzu said.
The Ionising Radiation Protection Act of 2005 has served as the backbone of the country’s radiation safety framework, reinforced by the Ionising Radiation Protection (General) Regulations No. 98 of 2011. The newly introduced amendments respond to emerging global challenges, including the increasing movement of goods and materials across borders.
Key highlights of the SI include the introduction of mandatory radiation screening requirements for:
- By-products of mining activities
- Building and construction materials
- Other imported products that may pose radiological risks
Dr Habeenzu commended the government under President Hakainde Hichilema for prioritising citizen safety in national development, while extending gratitude to technical experts and stakeholders involved in drafting the instrument.
“The Statutory Instrument empowers our regulator, provides clarity for industry players, and most importantly, strengthens protection for every citizen. It reflects our government’s unwavering commitment to applying scientific insight for the public good,” he added.
The unveiling of SI No. 52 of 2025 was hailed as both a regulatory milestone and a public declaration of Zambia’s resolve to build a safer, healthier, and more resilient nation.
