IAEA announces nuclear security support during AFCON in Morocco
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has announced that it supported Morocco in implementing nuclear security measures during the Africa Cup of Nations football tournament, which took place in the country from 21 December to 18 January.
According to a press release issued by the IAEA, the scale of the tournament required enhanced security measures to protect the hundreds of thousands of spectators. Morocco was confirmed as having requested the IAEA’s support to "help ensure that nuclear and other radioactive material could not be used to target the event, including through a review and strengthening of existing security arrangements".
Since 2004 the IAEA has supported 49 countries to enhance nuclear security at 88 major public events, providing specialised training, technical guidance and equipment. In preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, the IAEA conducted an expert mission to Rabat in June to review Morocco’s nuclear security arrangements. This was followed up by training on equipment operation, testing and maintenance for Moroccan officials provided at the IAEA Nuclear Security Training and Demonstration Centre, the world’s first international training centre dedicated to enhancing global nuclear security.
The press release also confirmed that the IAEA is currently supporting Mexico as it prepares to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside the United States and Canada, in June and July.
"The IAEA is committed to helping countries to stay vigilant and implement nuclear security measures during popular events," said Elena Buglova, director of the IAEA Division of Nuclear Security. "Our collaboration with Morocco builds on years of experience supporting African nations in hosting AFCON in a secure environment for football teams and fans."
To further strengthen Morocco’s capabilities, the IAEA loaned radiation detection equipment for use at the AFCON matches and during exercises conducted by Moroccan authorities in October in Rabat and Marrakech, where nuclear security scenarios were planned with IAEA participation.
According to Bouchaib Fikri, national focal point responsible for coordinating IAEA-Morocco assistance during the tournament, "The IAEA's technical support during this competition helped strengthen our national nuclear safety and security capabilities and contributed to the sporting event taking place in a safe environment for fans, teams, and all participants. This cooperation illustrates Morocco's commitment to nuclear security."
