Niger military leaders to nationalise uranium firm
Summary
Niger's military leadership announced plans to take full control of a uranium mining company, Somaïr, which is mostly owned by the French company Orano. The decision is part of a larger move by Niger to gain more control over its resources and distance itself from France, while possibly aligning more with Russia.Key Facts
- Niger's military junta plans to nationalize Somaïr, a uranium mining firm partly owned by the French company Orano.
- Orano, owned by the French government, controls 63% of Somaïr.
- Niger accuses Orano of taking more uranium than fair from Niger.
- Niger is the world's seventh-largest producer of uranium with high-grade ores.
- Niger's military leaders took control in 2023 and aim to manage the country's minerals more locally.
- Orano has not commented on this decision but has reportedly taken legal steps against Niger.
- Niger gained independence from France in 1960 but maintained uranium agreements with the country.
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