Niger introduces copper mining to boost economy
Niger is starting copper mining in its northern desert as the country looks to expand its mineral industry.
The government has given a permit to a national company, Compagnie Miniere de l’Air (Cominair SA), to begin mining in the Agadez region.
The government says this is part of a plan to develop new mineral resources, Barrons reports.
This makes Niger one of the countries that produces copper, a metal used in making electronics, construction materials, and other everyday items.
The new mine is expected to produce about 2,700 tonnes of copper every year for ten years. Officials say this could create around 300 jobs and bring in millions of dollars for the country. Copper is currently selling for about $9,000 per tonne.
Alongside the copper project, the government has also approved a small-scale lithium mining operation. The permit has been given to a Nigerien company, Compagnie Miniere de Recherche et d’Exploitation (Comirex SA), in the Agadez region. Production is expected to reach 300 tonnes per year for five years.
The Nigerien state owns 25 percent of the copper mining company and 40 percent of the lithium mining company.
This move is part of the military government’s push to take more control of the country’s natural resources since coming to power in July 2023.
In another major decision, the government has taken back a lithium mining permit from the French company Orano, which had been in Niger for 50 years.
Orano was working at the Imouraren site, which is said to have 200,000 tonnes of uranium. The company has criticised the government’s decision, saying it was forced out.
Niger already produces uranium, gold, and oil. The new copper and lithium projects are part of its effort to increase mining activities and bring in more money for the country.
