Niger’s military government has announced the nationalisation of the country’s sole industrial gold mine, accusing its Australian operator of “serious breaches” as the junta seeks greater control of natural resources.
The military junta has ruled the West African nation since seizing power in a 2023 coup, promising to crack down on Niger’s myriad security issues.
Juntas in Niger, neighbouring Burkina Faso and Mali have ramped up pressure on foreign mining companies in recent years, with Niger nationalising the local branch of French uranium giant Orano in June.
At worst, I’d say it’s a neutral change. Even the scenarios you’ve outlined are better than the alternative. But the truth is, we won’t know until we know. Simple as that.
For what it’s worth, I don’t think they are a communist utopia either, and I think people get carried away hyping them up. I just don’t think arguing about it is a hill worth dying on.