Tanzania Atomic Energy Commission

The Tanzania Atomic Energy Commission, (also known by its acronym, TAEC) is the regulatory body responsible for all atomic energy matters in the United Republic of Tanzania, established under the Atomic Energy Act No. 7 of 2003. The formation of TAEC in 2003 came into effect after the repeal of the Protection from Radiation Act No. 5 of 1983, which created the National Radiation Commission (NRC) in 1983. The TAEC was formed with additional responsibilities which includes to provide for its functions in relation to the control of the uses of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation sources and the promotion of safe and peaceful applications of atomic energy and nuclear technology. Additionally, TAEC regulates the safe and peaceful uses of atomic energy, promote and expand the contribution of atomic energy and nuclear technology for health and prosperity throughout the United Republic of Tanzania. The first President of Tanzania, Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere signed the Protection from Radiation Act on May 9, 1983 to control the use of radioactive material and for other matters connected with the protection of person from harm resulting from ionizing radiation in the United Republic of Tanzania. This act gave the National Radiation Commission the complete control of the use of radioactive materials, installation of plants, importation of nuclear installations and operation of nuclear installations.

During its early days, the NRC played a key role in coordinating the medical and industrial application of ionizing radiation by carrying out regular inspections at ionizing radiation facilities with a view to ensuring the protection of workers. students and the public generally from harm resulting from ionizing radiation. On importation of nuclear instillations, the NRC was responsible to take into consideration all applications for and grant licences to persons intending to import or use atomic or other radioactive plants, installations and maintain a register or registers of importers, users and operators, of nuclear or other radioactive plants, installations, apparatus or other radioactive materials.