Orano, the French nuclear fuel company, has confirmed that Niger’s military administration has taken control of its Somair uranium mine, which is situated in Niger, a country that has been a significant supplier of uranium to France. Orano, which holds a 63% stake in the mine, stated that it is no longer able to implement decisions made in Somair’s board meetings, marking a loss of operational control. This move follows months of escalating tensions between Orano and the Nigerien authorities, stemming from the military government’s interference in the management of the mine.
The situation worsened in 2024 when Niger revoked a critical mining permit in June, followed by the imposition of export blockades that halted uranium shipments. These disruptions led to the stranding of 1,150 tons of uranium concentrate and financial losses exceeding $200 million. Operations at the mine were entirely suspended by October due to logistical and financial pressures. Orano has since been unable to regain control of its operations.
The conflict is tied to broader political tensions between Niger and France, particularly after the military junta took power in a coup in 2023. Niger was previously a major supplier of uranium for France, accounting for 15-20% of its uranium imports. The Nigerien military has since been reassessing foreign mining operations, reflecting its broader plans to assert greater control over the country’s natural resources. This shift is part of the junta’s broader push to reform Niger’s regulatory environment in a way that limits foreign influence over its critical industries.
