With immediate effect, the Republic of Niger, led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani and supported by the people of the Republic, has made a significant decision to suspend the export of uranium and gold to France. This move comes amid rising tensions and discontent surrounding French colonial practices in the country.

In response to the decision, protestors have surrounded the French Embassy in Niger, demanding an end to French interference and chanting slogans like "Down with France!" The demonstrators have also expressed their support for the coup leader, Tchiani.

However, this decision has also led to condemnations and threats from African governments that maintain ties with European-linked institutions, including the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the European Union (EU), as well as the African Union. In light of these challenges, General Tchiani has reaffirmed his commitment to defending the nation against any potential threats.

Niger's decision to suspend uranium and gold exports to France carries significant implications, as the country is the world's seventh-largest producer of uranium, according to the World Nuclear Association (WNA). In 2022, Niger produced 2020 tonnes of uranium, accounting for just over 4% of the world's uranium output.

The majority of uranium production in Niger is carried out by a French-owned company called Orano, which holds a 63.4% stake in Société des Mines de l’Aïr (SOMAÏR). The remaining 36.66% is owned by Niger's Société du Patrimoine des Mines du Niger, also known as Sopamin.

The decision has implications for the European Union, as it heavily relies on Niger for uranium supply. In 2021, EU utilities purchased 2905 tonnes of uranium produced in Niger, making the country the leading uranium supplier to the EU.

In response to the political upheaval and uncertainty following the overthrow of French ally and President of Niger, Muhammed Bazoum, Orano has expressed concern about the situation in the country. The company has set up a crisis unit to prioritize the safety of its employees in Niger, but it has also clarified that the event is not expected to have an immediate impact on its activities in the country or on the value of its assets.

The coup in Niger is part of a broader pattern of political upheavals across the African continent, as seen in other countries like Burkina Faso and Mali. The situation remains fluid and complex, with regional and international implications, and it continues to draw attention from various stakeholders in the global community.

Image source: CNN