Angola has been elected to serve on the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for the 2026–2028 term, strengthening its role in discussions on nuclear safety, security and the peaceful use of nuclear technology.
The election took place during the IAEA’s 70th General Conference, held in Vienna from September 14 to 18. Angola was elected without a vote alongside Brazil, Greece, Honduras, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Nigeria, Slovakia and Sweden, according to the IAEA’s official meeting summary.
The Board of Governors comprises 35 members and examines the Agency’s program and budget before making recommendations to the General Conference. Angola will occupy one of six seats allocated to Africa.
In a statement to the conference, Angola’s ambassador to Austria and resident representative to the IAEA, Isabel Godinho, said the mandate would provide an opportunity for the country to contribute to debates on safeguards, nuclear and radiation safety, nuclear security, technical cooperation and non-proliferation.
Godinho also highlighted the IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative, which supports countries seeking to expand cancer diagnosis and treatment capacity. The programme assists with radiotherapy infrastructure, medical equipment, safety systems and specialist training. In Angola, IAEA support has contributed to the development of radiotherapy services at the Angolan Institute for Cancer Control.
The appointment comes as Angola expands cooperation with the IAEA under a Country Program Framework covering 2024–2029. The program focuses on radiation protection and safety, food and agriculture, health and nutrition, water and environmental management, industry and energy.
Angola joined the IAEA in 1999, and its new Board mandate will run until the close of the Agency’s 72nd General Conference in 2028.
