Niger to Nationalize Somair Uranium Venture Operated with France  

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The authorities allege that Orano took a disproportionate share of the uranium produced at Somaïr. They added that the company has also been accused of other “irresponsible actions” at the site, without elaborating.

Niger’s government said it would nationalize the Somaïr uranium venture operated by French company Orano and accused it of taking a disproportionate share of the uranium produced at the site.

The announcement comes as military authorities in the West African country tighten their grip on foreign companies and civil society. Tensions have simmered for months between Niger’s military government and the French company, and relations between Niamey and Paris have deteriorated.

Faced with the irresponsible, illegal, and unfair behavior by Orano, a company owned by the French state — a state openly hostile toward Niger since July 26, 2023 … the government of Niger has decided, in full sovereignty, to nationalize Somaïr, the authorities said in a statement.

The authorities allege that Orano took a disproportionate share of the uranium produced at Somaïr. They added that the company has also been accused of other “irresponsible actions” at the site, without elaborating.

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Somaïr is a joint venture between Orano and Niger’s state-owned Sopamin, which operates the only active uranium mine in the country. But last year, authorities took operational control of Somaïr. They also withdrew Orano’s operating permit for the Imouraren uranium mine, with reserves estimated at 200,000 tons.