French nuclear company Orano has revealed that Nigerien authorities have seized operational control of the Somair uranium mine, despite Orano’s 63% majority stake. The move is the latest act of aggression by Niger’s military-led government, which seized power in a 2023 coup, intensifying tensions with foreign investors in the West African country. Niger, which contributes 4% of global uranium output, suspended exports last year, prompting Orano to halt production shortly afterward. The company said a recent board resolution to suspend production expenditures to preserve funds for salaries was ignored by the government, worsening Somair’s financial situation. Orano has vowed to defend its rights through appropriate channels. Niger had previously revoked mining permits from Orano and Canada’s GoviEx Uranium, reflecting an uncertain business climate. Despite the disruptions, Orano is offsetting uranium supply losses from Niger, which accounted for 15% of its global production, with increased output from Canada and Kazakhstan.
SOURCE: REUTERS
