Inauguration of the ELMARSAD Probe at AMSSNuR Headquarters
The ELMARSAD probe, an essential component of Morocco's national radiological surveillance framework, was officially inaugurated on June 10, 2026, at the headquarters of the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR) in Rabat. This significant event marks a collaborative effort between AMSSNuR, the European Commission, and the Belgian Institute of Radioelements (IRE-Lab). The inauguration ceremony was attended by notable figures including AMSSNuR's Director General, Saïd Mouline, the European Union's Ambassador to Morocco, Dimiter Tzantchev, and the Belgian Ambassador, Gilles Heyvaert, along with representatives from various governmental departments and institutional partners of AMSSNuR.
This installation represents a pivotal advancement in Morocco's capabilities for environmental radiological monitoring, aiming to enhance the country's rapid detection, alert, and management systems in the event of nuclear or radiological emergencies. Furthermore, it exemplifies a broader commitment to strengthening nuclear safety and security mechanisms, especially given the strategic importance of continuous monitoring of ambient radioactivity.
During the inauguration, Saïd Mouline emphasized that this project exemplifies the robust partnership between Morocco, the European Union, and Belgium. He highlighted the cooperative dynamics aimed at bolstering preventive measures, controls, and protections associated with nuclear and radiological applications.
Future Plans for Radiological Monitoring
The European Union’s Ambassador to Morocco acknowledged the involvement of various stakeholders, framing this initiative as a concrete demonstration of the EU's support for Morocco's efforts to enhance environmental radiological surveillance. He reiterated that this project aligns with the strategic partnership between the EU and Morocco, particularly focusing on the protection of human health and the environment.
The Belgian Ambassador expressed satisfaction with his country's contribution to this initiative through the expertise of the IRE-Lab. He noted that the deployment of additional probes as part of this project will ultimately expand the ELMARSAD network across Morocco.
As stipulated by Law No. 142-12 concerning nuclear and radiological safety and security, this initiative plans to install multiple probes in various regions of the Kingdom. It will also support the establishment of a national radiological monitoring program, in collaboration with accredited national laboratories. The overarching goal is to equip AMSSNuR with a specialized monitoring system for nuclear or radiological emergencies, ensuring a reliable, efficient, and internationally compliant framework.
As reported by lebrief.ma.
