Story by Lisa Masuku-Kurira
BULAWAYO – AGAINST the backdrop of rapid technological advances and emerging global risks, the Radiation Protection Authority of Zimbabwe (RPAZ) this week convened its second national Radiation Safety Conference in Bulawayo.
The three-day event, held under the theme “Strengthening Radiation Safety and Security in a Constantly Changing Environment”, brought together regulators, scientists, environmental experts and health professionals to explore strategies for safeguarding the nation from the risks of ionising radiation while advancing sustainable development.
“There is limited information about radiation and its effects. We need to talk a lot about it to create awareness and unfortunately, the harmful effects of radiation are not immediate. It takes over 20 to 30 years for someone who has been harmed by radiation to recognise the effects,” RPAZ Board Chairperson, Dr Anna Nyakabau said.
Key discussions focused on occupational safety, environmental protection, and cancer risks linked to prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation.
“I want to thank you for giving us this platform to share information about radiation. We cannot talk about environmental protection without talking about radiation protection. These things are interlinked. It is important to talk about these linkages,” EMA Laboratory Manager, Sylvia Yomisi said.
“Occupational exposure to ionising radiation can increase the risk of developing certain cancers. Leukaemia, skin cancer, lung cancer, thyroid cancer, and breast cancer are among the cancers linked to occupational radiation exposure,” NSSA Acting Deputy Director for Occupational Safety and Health, Dr Benjamin Mtetwa said.
As RPAZ looks ahead to its 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, key resolutions from this conference are expected to shape the future of radiation safety in Zimbabwe.
“This Conference is providing a platform to take stock of the progress that has been made by the authority as far as radiation safety is concerned. As we come up with the Authority’s 2026-2030 strategic plan, the resolutions made here will also guide its formulation,” Radiation Protection Authority of Zimbabwe Chief Executive Officer, Mr Justice Chipuru said.
With the rising global use of radiation in medicine, industry, and energy, RPAZ is reinforcing its mandate to ensure Zimbabwe is not only informed but also protected.
