Niger Grants Mining Permit for Moradi Uranium Mine

Niger’s Council of Ministers has issued a mining permit for the Moradi uranium mine to COMIREX SA, enhancing national control over resources. The initiative, approved in February 2023, aims for uranium production and job creation while fostering sustainable practices. COMIREX is expected to produce around 300 tons of uranium over five years, benefiting the local economy.

The Nigerien Council of Ministers has granted a mining permit to Compagnie Minière de Recherche et d’Exploitation (COMIREX SA) for the Moradi uranium mine. This significant decree was approved during a meeting on February 22, 2023, attended by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the leader resulting from the country’s recent coup. Alongside this decision, another permit for a small-scale copper mine was approved for Compagnie Minière de l’Aïr.

Located in the rural commune of Dannet in the Agadez Region, the Moradi site is part of a mining area previously held by AFASTO since 2015. COMIREX’s provisional environmental impact study anticipates the extraction of uranium through open-pit mining, leveraging a relatively shallow deposit of around 10 meters depth, containing approximately 2000 tons of uranium.

Under the agreement, COMIREX is projected to yield around 300 tons of uranium over five years, creating 94 job opportunities for young Nigeriens. Additionally, the project is expected to generate over XOF3.634 billion (approximately USD 5.8 million) in royalties from uranium sales, along with an annual surface royalty of XOF114 million during its operational life.

Both COMIREX and Compagnie Minière de l’Aïr are committed to investing in the ongoing training for personnel within Niger’s Ministry of Mines. They are also responsible for supporting local infrastructure and adhering to sustainable environmental practices, reflecting the Government’s goal to enhance national sovereignty over natural resources for the welfare of the populace.

In summary, Niger has effectively strengthened its control over natural resources by granting a mining permit for the Moradi uranium mine to COMIREX SA. This initiative not only facilitates uranium extraction but also emphasizes job creation and community investment. The involvement of local companies underlines Niger’s commitment to fostering national development while preserving sustainable practices.

Original Source: www.world-nuclear-news.org