The recent revocation of the operating license of French nuclear fuel producer Orano by Niger’s military government at one of the world’s largest uranium mines, Imouraren, has raised serious tensions between the regime in power, which emerged from a coup in July last year, and France, the former colonial power.
The move highlights the political tensions and economic issues that underlie relations between Niger and France, which explore a shared past and a shared economy, particularly in the mining sector.
Niger, rich in natural resources, is a major player on the global stage of uranium, a crucial component for nuclear energy production. Imouraren, located in the north of the country and containing reserves estimated at 200,000 tonnes of uranium, represented a key project for Niger’s mining industry and foreign partners, including France.
Following the collapse of uranium prices following the 2011 Japanese nuclear disaster, development of the mine was suspended, delaying the start of operations. Despite efforts to restart operations at the site, Niger’s military government decided to revoke Orano’s operating license, citing reasons related to the failure to meet expectations regarding the operating plan.
Niger’s unilateral decision marks a turning point in relations between the country and France, which have been shaken in recent months by political and strategic differences. By expelling the French ambassador and ordering the departure of French troops deployed to fight armed groups in the region, Niger’s military government appears to be seeking to turn away from its historical ties with the former colonial power and turn to new partners, notably Russia.
Orano, which has been operating in Niger for over 50 years, has expressed its willingness to maintain dialogue with the military authorities, while reserving the right to take legal action against the revocation of its operating license. This escalation of tensions between the two parties raises concerns about the future of economic and political relations between Niger and France, as well as the investment climate in the country’s mining sector.
It is essential that the parties concerned seek diplomatic solutions to resolve this dispute and ensure the stability and prosperity of Niger’s mining industry, which plays a crucial role in its economic and social development.