Niger
French nuclear fuels company Orano announced on Wednesday that authorities in Niger have taken control of its Somair uranium mine. This move comes as the military-led government increases pressure on foreign investors in the country.
Orano, which holds a 63% stake in the mine, stated that decisions made at Somair’s board meetings are no longer being enforced. The remaining 37% of the mine is owned by Niger.
At one point, Niger accounted for about 15% of Orano’s uranium supplies when its mines were operating at full capacity. This latest development follows a decision in June when Niger revoked Orano’s mining permit for its Imou-raren subsidiary.
The company has also been warning of interference in governance at Somair for several months. Operations at the mine were suspended last year after Niger authorities halted exports.
