Key Points
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France’s Orano says 1,500 tons uranium stockpiled in Niger.
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Niger’s junta seized control of Imouraren uranium project.
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France’s energy supply faces new geopolitical uncertainty.
Orano SA, a French company that makes nuclear fuel, says that about 1,500 tonnes of uranium are still stored at its Imouraren site in northern Niger. The country’s military junta took control of the site earlier this year.
Since the coup in July 2023 that removed President Mohamed Bazoum and put General Abdourahamane Tchiani in charge, there has been more and more uncertainty in Niger’s mining sector. Orano, which used to be called Areva, is one of Niger’s biggest foreign investors. It has been running uranium mines for more than 50 years and meets a large part of France’s nuclear energy needs.
Uranium stockpile at seized Imouraren site
Orano confirmed in a statement that the uranium concentrate is safely stored at Imouraren, one of the world’s largest known deposits, located near the northern town of Arlit. “Around 1,500 metric tons remain secured on site under state supervision,” the company said, adding that its staff have been barred from accessing the facility since March, when Niger’s junta ordered a suspension of operations.
According to a report by Mining weekly, the French firm has poured billions of euros into Niger since the 1970s, with its SOMAIR and COMINAK joint ventures making the country one of the world’s top uranium exporters. The Imouraren project, once projected to produce 5,000 tons annually, has been repeatedly delayed due to market conditions and now faces political complications.
Niger’s junta asserts sovereignty over resources
Since seizing power, the military-led National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland has tightened its control over strategic assets, expelling French troops, revoking security deals, and vowing to renegotiate mining contracts.
“Niger’s leaders see uranium as both an economic asset and a bargaining chip,” said Ali Idrissa, coordinator of the Nigerien Network of Organizations for Transparency. “But these decisions risk scaring away investment that the country desperately needs.”
The European Union sources about 20 percent of its uranium imports from Niger, while France—where 70 percent of electricity is generated from nuclear power—has long relied on the country to fuel its 56 reactors.
France’s Orano faces uncertain future in Niger
With uranium prices rising on global markets due to renewed interest in nuclear power, the standoff places Orano in a precarious position. Analysts say the vacuum could open the door to Russia and China, both of which have increased engagement with African governments in recent years.
Orano maintains it will respect Niger’s sovereignty while pushing for dialogue. “We remain committed to our partnerships in Niger,” the company said, “but sustainable operations require stable conditions.”
