Uranium du Niger : L’aigle chauve passe à l’attaque
Two years ago, the military in power in Niamey summarily dismissed the American troops stationed in Niger. This did not sit well with Washington, but its soldiers wisely packed up and left. The complete withdrawal of American troops from the country was finalized in September 2024.
Two months later, in November 2024, Donald Trump is re-elected President of the United States. When he takes office in 2025, it quickly becomes apparent that his diplomatic actions will be devoid of revenge or moral considerations. The Republican billionaire wants to do business, regardless of who he's dealing with. Niger holds considerable appeal for him. It possesses oil and uranium, a mineral deemed critical by his administration.
A $414 million loan approved
In March 2026, Washington will re-establish diplomatic relations with Niamey. Last week, Reuters reported that the U.S. Development Finance Corporation approved $414 million in financing for Global Atomic's "Dasa" uranium mining project in Niger.
This deposit is described as the richest uranium project in Africa. By approving this funding for the "Dasa" project, the bald eagle (the bird symbolizing the USA) is undoubtedly securing access to another source of uranium supply.
Orano in open conflict with Niamey
The announcement of this American credit facility comes at a time when Orano is in open conflict with the military in power in Niamey.
The French multinational, which has long dominated the uranium sector in Niger, has initiated several international arbitration proceedings with the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) against Niamey, following the nationalization of its subsidiary Somair and the withdrawal of its operating permits, notably that of Imouraren.
Niger retaliated by launching national and international legal proceedings against the French giant for environmental damage. In such a tense climate, it is difficult to predict a future for Orano in Niger.
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