Russia's Rosatom Engages in Private Talks with Niger to Acquire Uranium Assets from French Company Orano SA

Russia's state nuclear company, Rosatom, is in private discussions with Niger's military-led authorities to acquire uranium assets currently held by French company Orano SA. This move is perceived as an attempt to challenge Western interests in Africa.

Rosatom has initiated contact with Niger's authorities regarding the acquisition of Orano SA's assets, as reported by a source in Moscow. A Western diplomat in the region suggests that the talks are likely focused on mining permits.

Why this matters: Russia's potential acquisition of uranium assets in Niger could have significant implications for the global nuclear energy market and challenge Western interests in Africa. This development could lead to a shift in the global balance of power and influence in the region.

Niger accounted for approximately 4% of global uranium mine production in 2022, making it a significant player in the uranium market. The country's uranium assets are vital for nuclear energy production, which Russia aims to leverage.

The discussions come amid strained relations between Paris and Niamey following a military coup in Niger last July that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. France has since closed its embassy in Niamey and withdrawn its troops from the country.

Rosatom's potential acquisition of uranium assets in Niger would provide Russia with greater control over the global uranium supply chain. This move aligns with Russia's broader strategy to expand its influence in Africa, where it has been increasing its economic, diplomatic, and military presence.

Mark Hibbs, a nuclear analyst with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, noted, 'Russia has been stepping up its economic, diplomatic, and military links in Africa, including after the Niger coup, and they see this part of the world as a strategic investment opportunity.'

Orano SA currently owns 63.4% of Société des Mines de l'Aïr (SOMAÏR), with the remaining 36.66% owned by Niger's Société du Patrimoine des Mines du Niger (Sopamin). The extent of the assets Rosatom seeks to acquire and the terms of the transfer remain unclear.

Since the coup, Niger has joined other African countries in strengthening ties with Russia. This shift is partly driven by widespread resentment of France's longstanding influence in its former colonies.

Niger's uranium assets are not only significant for Russia but also for France and the European Union. France has historically depended on Niger for up to 15% of its uranium requirements to fuel nuclear reactors, which contribute to 65% of the country's electricity production. Additionally, European Union utilities relied on Niger for about a quarter of their uranium supplies in 2022.

The talks between Rosatom and Niger's authorities are still in the early stages, with no negotiations or terms of transfer yet set out. The outcome of these discussions could have significant implications for the global uranium market and geopolitical dynamics in Africa.

As Russia continues to expand its influence in Africa, the acquisition of uranium assets in Niger could solidify its position in the global nuclear energy market. This development highlights the shifting geopolitical dynamics and the strategic importance of Africa's natural resources.

Key Takeaways

• Russia's Rosatom seeks to acquire uranium assets in Niger from French company Orano SA.
• Niger accounts for 4% of global uranium mine production, making it a significant player.
• Rosatom's acquisition would challenge Western interests in Africa and shift global nuclear energy market dynamics.
• Russia aims to expand its influence in Africa, where it has been increasing economic, diplomatic, and military presence.
• The acquisition would provide Russia with greater control over the global uranium supply chain.