Niger’s authorities have announced plans to take legal action against the French nuclear company Orano, the former operator of the country’s uranium mines.

Justice Minister Alio Daouda told reporters on that the government is accusing Orano of leaving “several million tons” of radioactive waste exposed at a former mining site in Arlit, in northern Niger.

The announcement follows growing concerns from civil society groups. In May, a coalition of organisations from the Agadez region warned that the long years of uranium extraction had created serious health, environmental and economic problems for nearby communities.

Journalist and political analyst Ibrahim Moussa says the government’s decision marks a significant shift in how Niger deals with its long-standing uranium sector.

“This case is important because it speaks to years of frustration among local communities,” Moussa said. “People in Arlit and Agadez have complained for a long time about contamination and a lack of accountability. The government is signalling that companies exploiting Niger’s resources will now be expected to take responsibility for the damage they leave behind.”

He added that the legal battle could also reshape Niger’s relations with foreign mining interests.

“If the courts rule in favour of the state, it could set a precedent for how extractive companies operate in the country going forward,” he said.

–ChannelAfrica–