French nuclear fuels company Orano announced on Wednesday that it no longer has control over its Somair uranium mine in Niger, citing governance interference and actions by Nigerien authorities who have assumed control of the operation.
Orano, which holds over 60% ownership in the mine, said governance issues have persisted for months, culminating in a disregard for board decisions. Production at the mine had already been suspended after Niger authorities halted uranium exports last year.
Niger, which accounts for around 4% of the global uranium supply and is a long-standing site for Orano’s operations, has become increasingly challenging for international companies to navigate following a military coup last year.
The company revealed that a Nov. 12 board resolution to suspend production-related expenditure—aimed at preserving funds for salaries—was being ignored. Orano stated that continued production spending is further worsening Somair’s financial situation.
Despite Niger’s significance to Orano’s uranium supply, contributing 15% at full capacity, the company assured stakeholders that disruptions from Niger have been fully offset by increased production in Canada and Kazakhstan.
The developments underline the growing risks for foreign businesses in Niger, where political instability has created a volatile environment for operations.
