The Nigerien government granted uranium mining permits to two national companies following a council of ministers meeting held on Friday, August 21, 2026, in Niamey. The meeting, which finalized the decision, was presided over by General Abdourahamane Tiani. This significant move allows TSUMCO SA (Société TELOUA SAFEGUARDING URANIUM MINING COMPAGNY) and MAMICO (MADAOUELA MINING COMPANY) to proceed with uranium mining operations. The permits were issued as part of a broader strategy to enhance national control over Niger's valuable mineral resources.
TSUMCO SA Takes Over Uranium Operations
A permit for large-scale uranium mining was specifically granted to Société TELOUA SAFEGUARDING URANIUM MINING COMPAGNY (TSUMCO SA) for the "In Azaoua" site. This site is located within the Commune of Arlit, which is part of the Department of Arlit in the Agadez Region. TSUMCO SA was established to replace the nationalized Société des Mines de l'Air (SOMAÏR). The creation decree for TSUMCO SA specifically mandates the continuation of mining activities on the former SOMAÏR perimeter, ensuring operational continuity. This means the new national company will assume operations in the areas previously managed by SOMAÏR. The government's decision to nationalize SOMAÏR and create TSUMCO SA reflects a broader strategy to exert greater national control over the country's uranium resources. The directive for TSUMCO SA to continue work on the established perimeter indicates a focus on maintaining operational continuity and leveraging existing infrastructure for uranium extraction. The permit issuance follows the established legal and administrative processes within the Nigerien mining sector, solidifying TSUMCO SA's role in the nation's uranium industry.
MAMICO's Re-Attribution Terms for MADAOUELA I
A permit for large-scale uranium mining, designated "MADAOUELA I", located in the Commune Urbaine d’Arlit, Department d’Arlit, Agadez Region, has been re-granted to MADAOUELA MINING COMPANY (MAMICO). This re-attribution follows MAMICO's request for the permit, which had returned to state ownership on July 31, 2024, by decree n° 2024-474/P/CNSP/MM.
The terms of the re-attribution include a lump-sum initial royalty payment of 10 million US dollars to the State, marking a significant financial contribution. MAMICO's re-attribution also involves a commitment to contribute to strengthening the capacities of mining administration agents, ensuring better oversight and management within the sector. The company will engage in local development initiatives for communities impacted by the project, aiming to foster positive socio-economic benefits. MAMICO has committed to respecting local content provisions within the mining sector, which will prioritize domestic resources and expertise. The company also plans to create approximately 1000 jobs for young Nigeriens, addressing local employment needs. Additionally, MAMICO will prioritize local companies for the provision of services and goods throughout the project's operational life, further boosting the national economy.
Regional Mining Context
The Nigerien government made the decision to grant the mining permits during a council of ministers meeting held on Friday, August 21, 2026, in Niamey. During this meeting, a permit for large-scale uranium mining was specifically granted to Société TELOUA SAFEGUARDING URANIUM MINING COMPAGNY (TSUMCO SA) for the "In Azaoua" site. This site is located within the Commune of Arlit, which is part of the Department of Arlit in the Agadez Region. The permit issuance follows the established legal and administrative processes within the Nigerien mining sector. The move is part of the government's broader strategy to enhance national control over its mineral resources, aiming for greater economic benefits and local development from its rich uranium deposits.