Military governments in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso are sidelining foreign mining firms to control their resources better. Recent actions include halting operations of Chinese companies in Niger for violations of local laws and nationalizing foreign-owned mines. This strategy appears supported by Russia, aligning with broader geopolitical interests in Africa.
Military governments in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso are actively working to reduce foreign competition in their mining sectors. In particular, Niger’s government accused three Chinese oil companies—China National Petroleum Corp, Soraz Zinder Refining Company, and West African Gas Pipeline Company Ltd.—of violating the local mining code, which resulted in their operations being halted in March 2024.
The accusations were made following incidents of sabotage at crude oil transport facilities, most notably an explosion on March 12 in the Dankasari area. Niger’s government pointed out that the Chinese firms violated military administration decrees aimed at prioritizing resources for the local population, including claims of unfair wage structures and a lack of support for Nigerien workers.
In early 2024, Niger took a significant step by nationalizing Orano SA’s uranium mine, while in Mali, officials detained executives from Barrick Gold Corp. and seized gold from their Loulo-Gounkoto mine. These measures indicate a broader strategy amongst the Sahel nations to strengthen resource control, and there are indications of covert support for these actions from Russia, further aligning with Moscow’s interests within Africa.
In summary, the military governments in Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso are intensifying their efforts to diminish foreign influence in the mining industry through nationalization and direct action against foreign companies. With backing reportedly from Russia, these governments aim to control their rich natural resources and cater to the needs of their local populations, marking a strategic shift in their resource management policies.
Original Source: odessa-journal.com
