African Nuclear-Weapons-Free Zone Treaty

 

The African Nuclear-Weapons-Free Zone Treaty, also known as the Treaty of Pelindaba, was signed by 47 of the continent’s 53 states, and prohibits states from conducting research on, developing, manufacturing, stockpiling, acquiring, possessing, or having control over any nuclear explosive device by any means anywhere. Parties are also banned from receiving assistance on research or development, and cannot station any nuclear explosive device on their territory. Encouragement for a state that breaks any component of this Treaty is also prohibited. States do have the decision regarding whether or not to allow foreign ships and aircrafts to pass through their borders. The treaty does not prohibit from peaceful nuclear activities but states are obligated to undergo verification by the IAEA.

Opened for Signature: 11 April 1996

Entry into force: 15 July 2009

Official Text: http://disarmament.un.org/treaties/t/pelindaba/text

Status and Signatories: http://disarmament.un.org/treaties/t/pelindaba

ACA Backgrounder: https://www.armscontrol.org/factsheets/nwfz