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Functions

Core Functions

Protecting Through Regulation

Authorization and Compliance Overview

Ensuring safety and security of radiation sources

The Authorization and Compliance Division plays a critical role in protecting workers, the public, and the environment by ensuring that all facilities and activities involving ionizing radiation sources, radioactive material, and nuclear material comply with national regulatory requirements and international radiation safety standards. The Division processes the issuance, amendment, renewal, suspension, and revocation of regulatory authorizations, licences and approvals

We conduct comprehensive technical reviews and assessments of applications for licences and authorizations involving radiation sources. Our evaluations verify that applicants meet safety, security and regulatory requirements before authorization is granted with applicable conditions. We also develop guidance documents to promote consistency, transparency and clear compliance with regulatory requirements across regulated facilities.

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Inspection and Enforcement Overview

Inspection and Enforcement Framework

The Inspection and Enforcement Division implements AERA’s statutory mandate to ensure that all facilities, activities and practices involving nuclear and radioactive materials, operate safely, and in full compliance with regulatory requirements. Inspection and Enforcement activities are conducted using a risk-informed, transparent, and legally grounded regulatory approach aligned with international best practices.

The division conducts planned inspections, compliance monitoring, and enforcement actions. Through these methods, the division validates and ensures license holders adhere to approved safety standards, operational procedures, and regulatory obligations. These functions support:

  • Protection of public health and safety

  • Protection of the environment

  • Security of radioactive sources and nuclear materials

  • Prevention of radiological incidents and illicit trafficking

  • Assurance of regulatory compliance and accountability

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Other Functions

Strengthening Safety and Security

Public Awareness Overview

Building Awareness.Promoting Safety.Inspiring Confidence

The Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (AERA) is committed to promoting public awareness and understanding of radiation safety, nuclear security, and the peaceful applications of nuclear technology in Malawi. AERA provides accurate, timely, and accessible information to stakeholders and the general public on the benefits, risks, and regulatory requirements associated with the use of ionizing radiation and radioactive materials

AERA engages a wide range of stakeholders through awareness campaigns, media engagement, exhibitions, stakeholder consultations, and community outreach. The Authority promotes a strong culture of safety and security, enhances transparency in regulatory processes, and supports the safe, secure, and peaceful use of radiation and nuclear technologies for national development by fostering open communication and encouraging stakeholder participation

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Nuclear Safeguards Overview

Nuclear Safeguards Framework

Nuclear security refers to the prevention, detection, and response to theft, sabotage, unauthorized access, and illegal transfer of nuclear and other radioactive materials. It aims to protect people, property, and the environment from malicious acts involving such materials

At the national level, the Regulatory Authority establishes and enforces nuclear security measures through licensing, inspections, and coordination with relevant security agencies. These measures are aligned with international guidance provided by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and contribute to national and global efforts to prevent nuclear and radiological terrorism.

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Nuclear Security Overview

Nuclear Security Framework

Nuclear security refers to the prevention, detection, and response to theft, sabotage, unauthorized access, and illegal transfer of nuclear and other radioactive materials. It aims to protect people, property, and the environment from malicious acts involving such materials

At the national level, the Regulatory Authority establishes and enforces nuclear security measures through licensing, inspections, and coordination with relevant security agencies. These measures are aligned with international guidance provided by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and contribute to national and global efforts to prevent nuclear and radiological terrorism

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Emergency Preparedness and Response Overview

Prepared Today. Protected Tomorrow.

The Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (AERA) is mandate under national radiation safety legislation to coordinate, regulate, and oversee emergency preparedness and response activities involving radiation and nuclear incidents in Malawi

AERA works with national and international partners, emergency agencies, and radiation facility operators to maintain continuous preparedness and ensure rapid, effective response during radiological or nuclear emergencies. The Authority promotes coordinated emergency management and ensures authorized facilities develop, maintain, and regularly test emergency plans in line with national regulations and international safety standards

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