Orano’s decision to suspend its activities in Niger comes after several months of blocked uranium exports and the failure of the Nigerien authorities to respond to proposals to resume operations.
In a statement on Wednesday, October 23, Orano announced the provisional suspension of the activities of its subsidiary Société des Mines de l’Aïr (SOMAÏR) in Niger, which comes into effect at the end of October.
According to the French nuclear giant, this decision is the result of a continuous deterioration in the company’s financial situation, mainly due to the closure of the main supply and export corridor following the events of July 26, when President Mohamed Bazoum was overthrown by soldiers who now constitute the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland (CNSP), led by General Abdourahamane Tiani.
Orano noted that despite the implementation of compensatory measures and numerous attempts to engage in dialogue with the new Nigerien authorities, no response has been received to proposals to resume uranium exports.
What’s more, the local shareholder SOPAMIN, which represents the state of Niger with a 36.6 percent stake, has not paid its debts to SOMAÏR for 15 months, exacerbating the company’s financial difficulties.
In a statement to APA on October 23, Orano expressed deep concern about the impact of this suspension on employees, subcontractors and the economic development of the Arlit region.
The group also stated that SOMAIR’s remaining financial resources will be used as a priority to ensure the payment of salaries and the maintenance of industrial equipment until the end of the year.
SOMAÏR is engaged in uranium mining and processing at Arlit, including ore mining, uranium concentrate (yellowcake) production, and maintenance of its facilities to ensure safe and efficient operations.
The company said it is committed to maintaining employment and strict environmental standards, while engaging in dialogue with local authorities and communities to support regional development.
Relations between Niger and France have deteriorated significantly since Tchiani came to power, with Niamey accusing Paris of backing plots to destabilise the new regime.
AC/sf/lb/as/APA