Year
2024
Abstract
| The challenge of detecting and managing nuclear and other radioactive materials outside regulatory control is a significant global concern for law enforcement, border control, and security agencies. The Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority (KNRA) has been proactively organizing and conducting training sessions in radiation protection and nuclear security for various border control agencies. Concurrently, KNRA observed that the US Department of Energy (US DOE) was offering similar training to border control officers, including in Kenya, with these courses led by US DOE instructors. Upon further evaluation, it was apparent that the US DOE's program had achieved a higher level of maturity and refinement, attributed to its extensive implementation and delivery across multiple countries. This observation highlighted the advanced nature of the US DOE's training program in comparison to other initiatives. Seeking to bolster their expertise, the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority (KNRA) joined forces with the US Department of Energy (US DOE) in a collaborative venture aimed at enhancing skill sets. Through this partnership, the US DOE provided comprehensive training to Kenyan instructors, employing an in-depth training-of-trainers and mentorship approach. This endeavor, known as the Radiological and Nuclear Commodity Identification Training (CIT), characteristically involves a thorough full-day tabletop exercise (TTX) designed to cement the practical application of the skills taught. Impressively, the Kenyan team took the initiative to create their own tailored training program, reflecting their commitment to addressing specific regional needs. Additionally, Kenya has expanded the reach of this training, extending it throughout the wider East African region. This strategic move not only demonstrates Kenya’s commitment to nuclear safety and security but also solidifies its role as a leading regional authority in this critically important field. The significance of this training was particularly highlighted by an incident in Kenya in 2016. In this event, Kenyan officials detained suspects involved in the trafficking of explosives and radiological materials intended for a Radiological Dispersal Device (RDD), commonly known as a "dirty bomb." It was noteworthy that several of the Kenyan officials engaged in the operation had previously completed the radiological and nuclear commodity identification training provided by the KNRA. This presentation will focus on three principal components: An in-depth exploration of the technical content encompassed by the detection and interdiction of nuclear and other radioactive materials developedKenya's commendable effort in developing its own national training program, highlighting the country's commitment to bolstering its security infrastructure.An account of the successful interdiction operation conducted by Kenyan authorities, underscoring the tangible outcomes of the training programs in action. |