Russia wants to mine Niger's uranium, energy minister says

Russia seeks to mine uranium in Niger, leveraging ties with the junta-led government. Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev, visiting Niamey, met General Abdourahamane Tiani to advance economic cooperation. Rosatom signed a memorandum for civilian nuclear power, including mining and building a power plant.

Niger, producing 3,527 tonnes of uranium in 2023, ranks seventh globally. The junta, since its 2023 coup, demands greater resource control, straining ties with France. Orano, 90% French-owned, lost control of Somair, Cominak, and Imouraren mines. Tsivilev emphasized, “Our main goal is to mine uranium.”

No transfer of Orano’s mines to Russia was confirmed. The junta’s pivot to Russia aligns with its anti-French stance, seeking nuclear expertise and training.