Niger’s military government has revoked the operating license of French nuclear fuel producer Orano at the Imouraren uranium mine, one of the world’s largest, as part of its ongoing efforts to sever ties with former colonial power France. Orano, a state-owned company, was ordered to cease operations at the mine, which holds an estimated 200,000 tonnes of uranium used for nuclear power and weapons.
The Nigerien Ministry of Mining had previously warned that Orano’s license would be revoked if mining activities had not commenced by June 19. In response, Orano stated that it had recently resumed activities at the site, reopening infrastructures to accommodate construction teams, in line with the government’s wishes. However, the company’s efforts were insufficient to prevent the license revocation.
Mining at Imouraren was originally scheduled to start in 2015 but was delayed due to the collapse of global uranium prices following the 2011 Fukushima disaster in Japan. The recent decision by Niger’s government, which came to power in a coup in July 2023, reflects the deteriorating relations with France. The coup led to the expulsion of the French ambassador, the withdrawal of French troops, and the closure of French military bases in Niger.
Niger has increasingly sought support from Russia and Iran, pledging to review and potentially revoke foreign mining concessions. This move against Orano appears to be part of this broader strategy. Reports indicate that Russian companies have expressed interest in the Imouraren site, and there has been notable activity between Russian businesses and mercenaries in Niger, suggesting a possible shift in mining licenses to Russian entities.
Orano has operated in Niger since 1971. While its uranium mine at Arkokan closed in 2021, it continues to run another mine in Arlit despite logistical challenges. Niger, which supplies about a quarter of Europe’s natural uranium, faces export difficulties due to the closure of its border with Benin, its primary sea access, for security reasons.
Orano has stated its willingness to maintain communication with Nigerien authorities and reserves the right to contest the license revocation in national or international courts. The Nigerien government has not yet commented on the decision.
