On June 23, 2025, Niger’s main mine workers’ union, SYNTRAMIN, announced its support for the government’s nationalization of the Somair uranium mine—formerly operated by French firm Orano—and confirmed that output will continue uninterrupted. The union described the move as a “sovereign decision” aimed at correcting “decades of pillaging” and ensuring Niger benefits fairly from its strategic mineral reserves.
This action follows Orano’s claims that it might pursue legal recourse, as it still controls a 63% stake in the mine. The nationalization is part of a broader regional push—seen in Mali and Burkina Faso—to assert greater local control over critical natural resources.
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