CTBTO Chief Dr. Floyd commends UDSM for hosting the Global Nuclear Test Monitoring facility
- Delivers a perceptive public lecture on Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty
By Jackson Isdory, CMU
The Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) Dr. Robert Floyd has commended the University of Dar es Salaam for hosting the treasurable International Monitoring Station (IMS) facility.
Speaking at the University of Dar es Salaam on 28 February 2025 when he delivered an erudite public lecture on the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty Dr. Floyd appreciated the country in general and UDSM in particular for the important role in supporting the CTBTO objectives through hosting such a vital facility.
“This facility is critical for monitoring nuclear test activities worldwide and has been instrumental in advancing the CTBT's goals. It is a significant asset in the global network for detecting nuclear tests”, said Dr. Floyd.
Dr. Floyd said the IMS facility at UDSM was vital “in our global efforts to monitor and prevent nuclear testing. It is a model for how scientific infrastructure can directly contribute to peace and security. It is instrumental in gathering data supporting the CTBTO’s mission of ensuring no nuclear tests occur, contributing to the long-term goal of a nuclear-free world”.
Dr. Floyd commended Tanzania not only for being among 32 countries hosting such facilities but also for operating the station effectively, which helps detect and monitor nuclear activities, thereby contributing to the safety and security of the global community.
The Head of the Physics Department, Dr. Mwingereza Kumwenda, pointed out the academic benefits of hosting the IMS at UDSM.
"This facility offers our nuclear physics students a practical learning environment and supports researchers in obtaining accurate and reliable data, aligning with the University’s mission to contribute to global scientific knowledge in nuclear safety”, Dr. Kumwenda explained.
Sustaining the successes of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty
Dr. Floyd, who delivered a public lecture on “Sustaining the Successes of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty in an Era of Global Change” which attracted academicians, security and peace units, diplomats, students and key regional stakeholders, underscored the CTBT's significant achievement in making the world a safer place.
He expressed gratitude for the near-universal support from signatory states, including Tanzania, and spoke at length regarding the challenges affecting nuclear security in an ever-evolving geopolitical context.
Dr. Floyd elaborated how the treaty helped prevent nuclear testing and how the ongoing cooperation among nations, including Tanzania, was essential to sustaining the CTBT's successes.
“The treaty's near-universal acceptance has been a pivotal development in strengthening global peace and security”, he pointed out while praising Tanzania’s contributions in this regard.
Meanwhile, in his welcoming remarks, UDSM Vice Chancellor, Prof. William-Andey Lazaro Anangisye, stressed the University’s commitment to promoting global conversations on pressing issues such as nuclear non-proliferation.