French Nuclear Group Orano Loses Control of SOMAÏR Uranium Mine in Niger as Military Junta Takes Over

Dec 4, 2024, 10:22 AM

French nuclear group Orano has announced that Niger's military junta has taken operational control of its uranium mining subsidiary, SOMAÏR (Société des Mines de l'Air), in the West African country. Decisions taken at SOMAÏR's board meetings are no longer being applied, according to Orano, which holds a 64% stake in the company. The Nigerien representatives confirmed their position during an ordinary board meeting held on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, effectively limiting Orano's influence over the mine's operations.