Niger says it will nationalize a uranium venture operated by France's Orano
IndependentJUN 21
Niger Nationalizes Uranium Mine Operated by French Company
Above: Somaïr uranium plant, Niger. Image copyright: Maurice ASCANI/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The nationalization of Niger represents a justified assertion of sovereignty over natural resources that have been exploited by France for decades as part of its neo-colonial policy, with minimal benefit to the Nigerien people. The military government's actions address legitimate grievances about unfair uranium pricing and disproportionate profit sharing that impoverished Niger despite its mineral wealth.
Narrative B
The nationalization is the latest evidence of the Nigerien military junta's arbitrary rule and blind hatred of the West. It undermines international investment confidence, damaging the economy of the poverty-stricken country and jeopardizing hundreds of jobs while strengthening Russian influence in a strategically important uranium-producing region that is critical to the world's nuclear energy supply.