Niamey: French nuclear fuel company Orano has announced that the Niger military administration has taken control of its Somair uranium mine in the West African nation. This development marks a significant shift in the management of one of Niger's key resources. According to Anadolu Agency, Orano, which owns approximately 63% of the mine, stated that decisions made at Somair board meetings are no longer being implemented. The remaining stake in Somair is owned by Niger. Since June 2024, a critical mining permit was revoked, leading to export blockades that halted uranium shipments. These disruptions have left 1,150 tons of uranium concentrate stranded, resulting in losses exceeding $200 million. By October, operations ceased entirely due to mounting financial and logistical challenges, and Orano has now confirmed it has lost all operational control of the mine. Orano expressed concerns about the ongoing interference, stating, "For several months, Orano has been warning of the interference that the group has been suffering in the governance of Somair, of which it is the majority shareholder and operator in Niger." The company further added, "The decisions taken at the company's board meetings are no longer being applied and, as a result, Orano is today confirming that the Nigerien authorities have taken operational control of the company. The production expenses which continue to be incurred on the site are worsening the company's financial situation with every passing day." The core of the dispute lies in the strained relations between Niger and France, particularly following France's refusal to recognize Niger's military government. Niger, which supplies 15-20% of France's uranium imports, accounts for about 4% of global uranium output. Orano has operated mines in Niger for years, but the business environment for international companies has grown uncertain following a military coup last year. This instability coincides with the junta's reassessment of other foreign mining operations and its plans to reform reg ulations to gain greater control over Niger's resources.