The Radiation Protection Regulations, 2008 require that any person that imports or exports radiation sources must acquire a permit to do so from the Radiation Protection Inspectorate. This requirement has been put in place to ensure the safe use of atomic energy and nuclear technology. Additionally, to detect illicit trafficking in order to prevent the acquisition of nuclear and radioactive material by persons or entities that could use them for malicious purposes. This also ensures that imported or exported material are only acquired by persons or entities with the capability of using them in a safe manner and only for authorised purposes. This requirement also ensures that Botswana complies with the relevant international instruments that she is party to.
Only persons that possess a License for Possession, Use and Sale of Radiation Sources may apply for a Permit to Import/Export Radiation Sources.
To access this service, follow the steps listed below:
- Complete the relevant sections of the Application for Licence/Permit to Import/Export/Transport/Possess and Use Radioactive Sources/Generators/Equipment (Form 2).
- Submit the application, applicable fee and the supporting documentation listed below to the office of the Radiation Protection Inspectorate at:
Plot 132, Unit B, Gaborone International Finance Park
- The application and supporting documentation will be assessed while you wait.
- If the application is successful a Permit to Import/Export Radioactive Sources will be issued.
- To IMPORT radiation sources applicants must provide:
- A formal contractual agreement for the return of the spent sealed sources to the manufacturer or supplier;
- A Certificate of the source(s) indicating wipe and leakage tests results;
- A Certificate of the source showing ISO/IEC compliance or compliance with any internationally recognized standards; and
- Details of the vehicle transporting the source, registration number, model and make of the vehicle, the route which the vehicle is going to take. Indicate safety measures in place in case of an emergency during transportation of the source(s).
Foreign companies seeking a temporary import into Botswana must submit all documents listed above, in addition to the following:
- Radiation Protection & Safety Program addressing all relevant issues (Emergency Preparedness Plan & Storage inclusive)
- Valid License/Authorization Certificate to possess & use radiation sources/generators (from country of origin)
- To EXPORT radiation sources applicants must provide:
A permit/letter from the Regulatory Authority in the country where the radiation source is coming from, giving authority to export the radiation source;
After complete documentation has been submitted to the Radiation Protection Inspectorate (RPI) Officer, the assessment process can be completed in approximately 1 hour.
For more information, please contact the office listed below.
Radiation Protection Inspectorate
Ministry of Communications, Knowledge and Technology
Private Bag BO 1
Bontleng Gaborone, Botswana
Unit B, Plot 132, Gaborone International Finance Park
Tel: (267)318-8388
Fax: (267) 395-7025
e-mail: rpibots [at] gov.bw (rpibots[at]gov[dot]bw)
website: www.mcst.gov.bw
Opening hours: 7:30 am to 12:45 pm and 13:45pm to 16:30 pm, Monday to Friday, except public holidays
