The government of Niger has revoked the uranium exploitation license of the French company Orano, according to the company.
This decision, reportedly made to enhance transparency and efficient utilization of the country’s natural resources, affects one of the world’s largest uranium mines, the Imouraren mine in northern Niger.
Prior to the military coup in Niger last year, the country was a significant economic and security partner in the Sahel region. However, the new military junta has pledged to reassess mining agreements and has ordered the withdrawal of Western troops.
Despite the recent increase in uranium prices, the Nigerien junta has decided to return the Imouraren mine to the public domain due to Orano’s exploitation plan not meeting expectations. Orano, which has operated in Niger for over 50 years, expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with the authorities while reserving the right to challenge the license withdrawal in court.
