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  • IAEA, Kenya and South Africa Work Together to Trace Sediments in Kenyan Port

IAEA, Kenya and South Africa Work Together to Trace Sediments in Kenyan Port

21 August 2024
Shipping channels in harbours and bays must maintain specific depths to ensure safe navigation for ships throughout the year. New innovative measurements of natural radionuclides in beach and aquatic sediments can be used to assess and map sediment transportation. These innovative systems of measure were defined through triangular cooperation between the IAEA, Kenya and South Africa under an <a href="https://www.iaea.org/about/partnerships/regional/cooperative-agreements/african-regional-cooperative-agreement-for-research-development-and-training-related-to-nuclear-science-and-technology-afra">African Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development and Training related to Nuclear Science and Technology (AFRA)</a> project. Traditionally, sediments were traced using artificial agents like dye tracers and fluorescent particles, but natural radionuclides found in beach and aquatic sediments provide an environmentally friendly alternative. The IAEA worked with Stellenbosch University in South Africa and the University of Nairobi in Kenya to establish capabilities on the African continent to trace sediments using natural radionuclides. <br /><br /> As a result, Stellenbosch University developed two systems: <br /><br /> <ul> <li>A terrestrial system to measure radionuclides in beach sediments. </li> <li>The Delta Underwater Gamma-ray Detection System (DUGS) for assessing and mapping aquatic sediments.</li> </ul>DUGS uses a gamma-ray spectrometer to measure radiation from natural radionuclides in underwater sediments. The system helps scientists map and analyse sediment distribution by collecting and processing data in real time. In April 2022, the IAEA facilitated the transfer of this technology to Kenya. The University of Nairobi received a DUGS system and comprehensive training was provided on sedimentation, radionuclides, and the operation of the DUGS system. Kilindini Harbour in Mombasa, Kenya, is East Africa's largest international seaport and a vital hub for regional trade. However, the rapid development of the Kenyan coastal zone is significantly altering sediment distribution and dispersal patterns, which affects the harbour’s navigability and efficiency. In November 2022, the IAEA carried out a mission to enhance understanding of sediment dynamics, using advanced radionuclide tracing techniques in Kilindini Harbour. The investigation of the harbour was conducted by a ten-person mission team, including experts and students from Stellenbosch University in South Africa and the University of Nairobi in Kenya. The mission aimed to gather comprehensive data on sediment movement and accumulation, which is essential for developing effective strategies to maintain the harbour’s navigability. Using DUGS, the team conducted a meticulous underwater survey of the area between the Mwache River and Kilindini Port. In addition to underwater measurements, the team conducted terrestrial surveys of beach sediment to determine its origins. Using the newly developed terrestrial gamma-ray system, they surveyed the beaches surrounding the Kilindini Port in Mombasa to measure radionuclide concentrations and determine sediment origins. Students from Kenya and South Africa participated in the project, gaining valuable skills and experience. Two female students from Kenya also received an IAEA fellowship in computational physics and sedimentation mapping in South Africa. Supported by the IAEA, this collaboration has achieved a significant milestone by establishing capabilities to trace sediment using natural radionuclides in sub-Saharan Africa. South-South cooperation is a key mechanism used by the IAEA to help countries address development challenges and enhance the application of nuclear science and technologies. This collaborative approach allows countries to share knowledge, expertise, and resources, fostering innovation and self-reliance. <br /><br /> Triangular cooperation involves the participation of third parties, such as donor countries or international organizations in South–South initiatives to accelerate progress. The IAEA seeks to promote partnerships with and between countries in the Global South. This cooperation not only enhances scientific and technological capabilities but also contributes to improving public health, environmental protection, and economic growth in participating countries.

The IAEA, Kenya and South Africa have been working together to apply a more environmentally friendly method of tracing ocean sediments, in order to keep East Africa's largest international seaport open for trade.  

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Last update: 21 August 2024

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