A military coup in Niger this week has raised a series of concerns for Europe’s clean energy sector.

Niger is home to large uranium mines, which supply much of French and other European nuclear energy needs. About 25% of the EU’s uranium is sourced from the nation.

The democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum was arrested by military coup leaders, who took control of key government facilities. 

It’s believed that Russia and its mercenary arm, Wagner Group, could be supporting the coup. 

The US accuses Wagner of exploiting natural resources in Africa, in exchange for military support of partner governments or military government.

Western Nuclear Firms Release Statements

French firm Orano is a major operator in the region, operating two mines at Arlit in northern Niger while developing the Imouraren project nearby.

The company said it was monitoring the situation, however, operations continue to as normal

“There was no impact today at this stage on our activities. This morning, our employees went to the site and there was no problem (…) Activities are continuing,” Orano said in a statement.

Meanwhile, shares in Canadian company Global Atomic Corporation (TSX:GLO) tanked in trade, as the company undertakes the development of the Dasa Project in Niger.

Niger’s Strategic Position 

According to World Nuclear Association, Niger has two significant uranium mines in the north, providing about 5% of world uranium mining output from Africa’s highest-grade uranium ores.

Niger was one of the few democracies left in the Sahel belt, which stretches across the continent. The nation had been friendly to France and the United States, hosting small military bases for each respective nation.

Niger was seen as a key ally in fighting Islamist extremists in the region.

With pro-Russian rallies taking place in the capital Niamey, reports said hundreds were heard chanting support for the Wagner Group and the Russian government.

According to The Council of Foreign Relations, Wagner has operated in several African countries since 2017, often providing its clients with direct military support and related security services alongside propaganda efforts. 

There appears to be a strategic game of chess playing out in Africa, with Niger’s neighbours Mali and Burkina Faso also seeing Wagner-supported coups, which have kicked out French forces.

France shifted more than 1,000 forces to Niger after pulling out of Mali last year.

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin offered support for the coup, being quoted in a statement Thursday that “what happened in Niger is the fight of its people against the colonizers. … It effectively means winning independence. The rest will depend on the people of Niger.”

The question now is, does Wagner move into Niger as expected. If it does, will the US and France be forced out? 

What happens to the control of the uranium mines, which Europe is relying on to fuel nuclear power needs?