Victor EzejaAs part of activities for the 2023 Jefferson Fellowships, Prime Business Africa Publisher, Dr Marcel Mbamalu and 10 other Fellows from around the world, on Sunday, 22 October 2023, visited the scene of the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster.
Cladded in white protective gear, the 11 Jefferson Fellows with clearance from Japanese authorities visit some restricted and high radioactive communities where the Fukushima Nuclear accident of 2011 occured.
The Fukushima nuclear accident which is considered the world’s worst-ever nuclear disasters, began on March 11 when a powerful earthquake ever recorded in Japan’s history struck off the country’s eastern coast. The incident resulted in the death of about 19,500 and much damage to coastal ports and towns, with over a million buildings destroyed or partly collapsed.
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Speaking on their encounter during the visit, Dr Mbamalu in a chat with Prime Business Africa correspondent said: “In protective gear and with official clearance from the Japanese authorities, I joined 10 other Jefferson Fellows around the world to visit some restricted and high radioactive communities where the Fukushima Nuclear accident of 2011 occured.
“Of course it was an emotion-packed encounter as we spoke to a few survivors in three districts of the deserted Fukushima Daichi, which prior to the 2011 accident were considered the breadbasket of Tokyo and the rest of Japan.
“At dusk, we had to take shelter at the Futabaya Traditional Inn, which just reopened a few weeks ago. More like a comic relief to experience the local cuisine. So natural!”
Here are the pictures:
Dr Mbamalu says the tour continues Monday (tomorrow) morning.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with six years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Masters degree in Mass Communication.
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