The diplomatic spat between Niger’s military-led government and its former colonial power, France, has taken a dramatic turn. In a move that underscores the shifting dynamics of control over Africa’s natural resources, Niger’s junta has seized control of the Somair uranium mine, which had been operated by the French nuclear energy company, Orano.

The Somair mine, located in the northern region of Niger, is a critical site for uranium extraction—a resource essential for nuclear power production. Orano holds a 63% stake in the mine, while Niger’s government owns the remaining 37%. Despite the French firm’s majority ownership, the Nigerien government has effectively sidelined Orano, with the company reporting that decisions made during board meetings are no longer being enforced.

This takeover follows a period of financial strain for Orano, which suspended production at the mine in October 2024. The company cited mounting financial pressures as the primary reason for halting operations, leaving a vacuum that Niger’s junta has now moved to fill.

A Shift in Resource Control

The implications of this move are significant. For decades, France has relied on uranium imports from Niger to fuel its nuclear power plants, a cornerstone of the country’s energy strategy. The loss of operational control at Somair not only threatens this supply chain but also signals a broader challenge to French influence in its former colonies.

The Nigerien government’s actions align with a growing trend among African nations to assert greater control over their natural resources. In this case, Niger appears to be leveraging its uranium reserves to diversify its partnerships and reduce dependency on Western companies. As part of this strategy, Niger’s junta has extended an invitation to Russian firms to invest in the country’s uranium sector, as well as other natural resources.

Broader Geopolitical Implications

The Somair dispute highlights the complex geopolitical shifts taking place in the Sahel region. With Niger inviting Russian investment, the country is aligning itself with a broader movement of African nations exploring partnerships outside traditional Western frameworks. This realignment has been catalyzed by growing anti-colonial sentiments and dissatisfaction with the perceived inequities of existing economic relationships.

For France, the fallout is twofold: the immediate loss of access to a vital resource and the erosion of its influence in a region where it has historically maintained a strong presence. For Niger, the move represents a bold assertion of sovereignty and an opportunity to renegotiate its place in the global economic order.

The Future of Niger’s Uranium Industry

While the junta’s actions mark a significant shift, questions remain about the long-term sustainability of Niger’s uranium industry. Can new partnerships with Russian firms deliver the technological expertise and investment required to maintain and expand production? Will this realignment provoke further tensions with Western powers, potentially leading to economic sanctions or other forms of retaliation?

As the story unfolds, one thing is clear: Niger’s actions at the Somair mine are part of a larger, continent-wide push to redefine Africa’s relationship with global powers. By taking control of its resources and inviting new partners, Niger is signaling its determination to chart an independent course, even as it navigates the challenges of a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.