18 January 2021
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Two disused radioactive sources, previously used in cancer treatment, have been transported to safe and secure storage locations in the Republic of the Congo. The relocation of the sources - which are expected to be exported outside the country next year - was supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
One of the Congolese disused radioactive sources is securely guarded prior to its transport (Image: M Warnau; D Ladsous/IAEA)
The University Hospital of Brazzaville received a new cobalt 60 (Co-60) sealed source in 2010 for its teletherapy machine, replacing its original source, which was no longer able to deliver effective treatment. The disused sealed source was then packaged and shipped by boat to the supplier. However, the delivery of the package was blocked in transit due to problems with the shipping documents and was returned to the Republic of the Congo. Since 2010, the Co-60 source has been stored at the Autonomous Port of Pointe Noir