IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi visited Niger to bolster support for peaceful nuclear technology applications in mining, water management, and cancer care. High-level meetings highlighted Niger’s significant uranium production, and agreements were established to enhance water resource management and healthcare services. Grossi emphasized ongoing collaboration and the importance of the IAEA’s role in Niger’s economic development.
During his recent two-day visit to Niger, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi engaged in high-level discussions with Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine and senior officials, focusing on advancing the peaceful applications of nuclear technology within the country. This encompassed priorities in mining, water resource management, and enhancing cancer care services. Notably, Grossi visited uranium mining sites, including the Compagnie Minière d’Akouta (Cominak) and the Société des Mines de l’Aïr (Somaïr), where he emphasized the IAEA’s commitment to supporting Niger’s development initiatives.
In a video statement at the Somaïr mine, Grossi remarked, “Niger is one of the biggest producers in the world of uranium. With important political changes in the country, it was very important to ensure the continuity of the presence of the IAEA.” He highlighted IAEA efforts to maintain safe and secure operations while assisting Niger in its economic ventures involving uranium mining. Grossi expressed satisfaction with the management observed and reiterated the IAEA’s commitment to long-term collaboration with Niger’s mining sector.
Significantly, Grossi also signed a water cooperation agreement with Minister of Hydraulics, Sanitation, and Environment Maizama Abdoulaye, aimed at strengthening integrated water resource management. This initiative, backed by World Bank funding, will enable Niger to develop a comprehensive platform for effective water-related policies and investments. Given Niger’s acute water scarcity challenges due to climate and population factors, the IAEA will utilize nuclear techniques to enhance freshwater resource management and establish robust national water quality labs.
Moreover, the IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative, which seeks to expand cancer care access, was also a key aspect of Grossi’s itinerary. He visited the National Cancer Care Centre in Niamey, highlighting the critical role of IAEA support in strengthening healthcare infrastructure within Niger. This reflects the agency’s broader mission to assist member countries in improving health outcomes through safety and technology access in nuclear science, particularly in healthcare and resource management.
The IAEA’s continued support for Niger is manifested through high-level collaborations, including in uranium management and water resource development. IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi’s visit underscores a commitment to facilitate sustainable practices and enhance public health through nuclear technology. Agreements signed during the trip aim to address pressing challenges, such as water scarcity and cancer care access, reinforcing the relationship between Niger and the IAEA.
Original Source: www.world-nuclear-news.org
