At the first Nuclear Energy and Innovation in Africa Summit (NEISA) in Kigali, Niger's Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine unveiled Niger's ambition to become a key player in civil nuclear power on the continent. Representing President Abdourahamane Tiani, he presented a bold vision, placing uranium at the heart of a strategy for energy sovereignty and African solidarity.
Niger, Africa's leading producer and the world's second largest producer of uranium, wants to leverage its resources to meet the continent's energy needs. "For decades, our uranium has lit up Europe. It is time for it to light up Africa," said Mr Zeine, highlighting the strategic importance of uranium in the NEISA discussions. The summit, held in Kigali, a model of African governance, brought together leaders and experts to discuss the continent's energy future.
Niger's decision to participate in NEISA is based on three pillars: the involvement of a Burkinabe national in the organisation, the importance of uranium in the discussions, and Rwanda's exemplary role as host. This participation marks a key step in Niger's desire to reposition its uranium industry in the service of Africa.
With over fifty years of experience in uranium mining and export, Niger has mastered the entire value chain. The Prime Minister highlighted recent initiatives, such as the nationalisation of the Société des Mines de l'Aïr (Somaïr), formerly controlled by the French multinational Orano, and the imminent commissioning of the Dasa mine, operated by Global Atomic. The Imouraren deposit, with its estimated reserves of 200,000 tonnes, represents a major asset for the country's ambitions.
These projects are part of Niger's Nuclear Power Programme (PEN), which includes an adopted national strategy, sectoral studies and a regulatory framework. "We are now entering the phase of mobilising funding and seeking partners," said Mr Zeine, who is also Minister of Economy and Finance. He praised the role of the West African Development Bank (BOAD), headed by Serge Ékué, in supporting the regional energy transition.
As a member of the Confederation of Sahel States alongside Mali and Burkina Faso, Niger is focusing on a diversified energy mix, combining uranium, solar, wind, hydrocarbons and water resources. This approach aims to address national energy challenges while laying the foundations for a pan-African strategy. "Niger wants to use its resources to promote African energy solidarity," said the Prime Minister, emphasising the importance of regional cooperation.
On the sidelines of the summit, Mr Zeine was received by Rwandan President Paul Kagame. Their discussions focused on continental priorities and strengthening bilateral cooperation, according to a statement from the Rwandan presidency. This exchange illustrates Niger's commitment to forging strategic partnerships to achieve its ambitions.
Despite its potential, Niger faces major challenges, including political and security instability in the Sahel region, as well as the need for substantial funding to develop its nuclear programme. The nationalisation of Somaïr, although hailed as an affirmation of sovereignty, has caused tensions with foreign partners, notably France. Furthermore, uranium mining must address environmental and social concerns, a key issue discussed at NEISA.
Internationally, Niger is seeking to diversify its partners, particularly with players such as Russia, China and Turkey, while strengthening intra-African collaboration. The commissioning of the Dasa mine, scheduled for 2026, could generate significant revenues, estimated at several hundred million dollars per year, according to Global Atomic.
By placing nuclear energy at the heart of its strategy, Niger aims to transform its status as a uranium producer into that of a regional leader in civil nuclear power. This vision, championed by Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine at NEISA, is based on proven expertise, structured projects such as the PEN, and a commitment to African solidarity. As the continent faces growing energy challenges, Niger could play a key role in the emergence of an energy-sovereign Africa, provided it overcomes financial and geopolitical obstacles.