Africa has become the focus of increased attention from key global and regional players. Competition for resources, political influence, economic cooperation, and military presence reshape the landscape of threats and opportunities facing the region’s countries.
The Sahel is one of the key focal points in this struggle for influence due to its strategic location, abundant natural resources, and significance for regional and international security. Uranium mining has traditionally been one of the region’s main economic drivers, attracting international interest. Niger, one of the world’s leading suppliers of uranium ore, ranks seventh among global uranium producers, accounting for approximately 5% of total production. The region’s high potential for uranium extraction is ensured by large deposits such as Arlit and Imouraren, as well as unexplored reserves, making geological exploration one of the most promising areas of cooperation.
Historically, the uranium industry in the Sahel has been dominated by foreign corporations, particularly the French monopoly Orano. However, with France’s declining political influence, the competitive landscape is shifting, with new players such as the United States and China entering the market. For the Russian nuclear energy sector, the uranium market in the Sahel presents significant opportunities.
Russia’s historically strong relationships with African countries, untainted by a colonial past, give it a unique advantage in expanding its regional presence. This makes Russia a promising partner for the Sahel countries, particularly in uranium mining and nuclear energy development. Russia’s nuclear industry — one of the most advanced in the world — possesses the expertise and technological capabilities necessary to develop uranium resources efficiently. Moreover, Russia’s established political ties with African nations further enhance the potential for cooperation. In particular, its extensive experience in security cooperation with African countries adds trust to its presence in the region.
This project explores the prospects and opportunities for strengthening Russia’s position in the uranium market of the Sahel. The research methodology will include elements of economic and political analysis and open-source research. The objective is to conduct a comprehensive study of the uranium market in the Sahel, examining its economic and competitive landscape and assessing the opportunities, risks, and key factors influencing Russia’s cooperation with regional states in uranium mining and nuclear energy development.
