Russia has dangled the possibility of building a nuclear power plant in uranium-rich Niger - a vast, arid state on the edge of the Sahara desert that has to import most of its electricity.
It may be deemed impractical and might never come to fruition, but this idea is another strategic move by Moscow to gain an edge over Western nations.
Niger has historically exported uranium for further refining in France, but this is changing as the military-led country cuts ties with the former colonial power. The uranium operation run by the French nuclear group Orano was nationalized in June, paving the way for Russia to propose itself as a new partner.
Moscow is talking about power generation and medical applications, aiming to train local expertise under a cooperation agreement signed by the Russian state corporation Rosatom and Nigerien authorities. If realized, this would mark the first nuclear power project in West Africa.
However, beyond initial talks, it is unclear how viable the project will be. Nevertheless, Moscow has shown it understands local sentiments and frustrations.
The closure and eventual nationalization of Orano's operations have been marked by mutual blame, with accusations from both the government and the company. Orano's director has been held in custody without charge since May, signaling the junta's intention to end French uranium mining.
With geopolitical dynamics shifting, this arrangement could solidify Russia's position in uranium production, a vital commodity for nuclear energy aimed at reducing global greenhouse gas emissions.
Nonetheless, Niger's plans for a nuclear power station raise substantial questions—technical, economic, and security-related—especially considering ongoing violence and jihadist activities in the region.
The viability of such a project is uncertain, as it relies heavily on significant capital investment and a secure power supply, which is jeopardized by the ongoing instability in the Sahel region.
Ultimately, the political climate in Niger favors Russia's overtures as it appears to recognize and respond to the nation's aspirations beyond being a raw material supplier.
