New Uranium Mining Projects - Africa
(last updated 19 Sep 2024)
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U.S. Court sentences Gabonese-French dual citizen to 24 months imprisonment for bribing African officials to obtain uranium concessions, among others
"Earlier today, Samuel Mebiame, a dual citizen of Gabon and France, was sentenced to 24 months in prison for his role in a conspiracy to pay bribes to senior government officials across Africa, in violation of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA).
" [...]
"According to court documents, in Niger, Mebiame paid more than $3 million in bribes to a high-ranking government official both directly and through intermediary agents who were selected by one of the Nigerien officials. Mebiame also made payments for luxury cars for that foreign official and directed a $100,000 donation to a charity run by a government official. In return, Mebiame obtained licenses for uranium concessions for the joint venture from the government of Niger."
"Similarly, in Chad, Mebiame bribed a high-ranking government official with cash payments and luxury foreign travel for the official and the official’s wife. In return, Mebiame obtained uranium concessions for the joint venture, including rights to an asset that had been stripped by the Chadian government, at Mebiame’s urging, from a French-owned company. [...]"
(U.S. Department of Justice, May 31, 2017)
Activists climb Mount Kilimanjaro in endeavour to call African governments to ban uranium mining, nuclear weapons
Young activists for peace and environment from around the world have conquered Mount Kilimanjaro in a bid to send a message to the government leaders to ban uranium mining and outlaw nuclear weapons.
(Daily News July 6, 2015)
Peace and environmental activists from around the world are gathering here [Moshi, Tanzania] in a quest to persuade African governments to slap a ban on uranium mining and nuclear weapons as they are twin threats.
Under the K-Project for Peace , the activists, having gone through scientific studies, have formed an opinion that it is in everybody's best interest that uranium should remain in the ground, as its extraction is in every way hazardous.
K-Project for Peace started as an appeal by Ms Racheal Chagonja, an environmental and peace activist from Tanzania, when she saw the devastating effects of uranium mining (U-Mining) to the environment, health, and rights of indigenous people in Niger and Mali [?!?].
(Daily News July 2, 2015)
CNNC, China-Africa Development Fund to develop uranium resources in Africa
China National Nuclear Corp, the nation's largest nuclear power plant builder, yesterday said that its subsidiary China Uranium Corp has signed an agreement with China-Africa Development Fund to jointly develop uranium resources in Africa, sources reported.
In a statement posted on its website, CNNC said that both parties will set up a joint venture in Beijing to invest in and develop uranium resources in Africa.
(China Knowledge Sep. 2, 2010)
Russia and China consider joint exploitation of uranium deposits in Africa
The Chinese are interested in a cooperation with Russia on uranium production in third countries. "It is possible, we have mentioned African countries, in particular", Rosatom head Sergei Kiriyenko announced.
(RIA Novosti Aug. 30, 2010)
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Algeria plans to build nuclear power plant
Algerian Energy Minister Mohamed Arkab said Algeria is planning to build a nuclear power plant to take advantage of the immense uranium assets in his country, local radio channel 1 reported Monday (July 15).
"Algeria's uranium reserves are around 26,000 tons," Arkab was quoted as saying during his visit to the Nuclear Research Center in the capital Algiers.
"The government mulls developing the level of its capacity ahead of building the first power-generating nuclear plant," he added.
(Xinhua July 15, 2019)
Russia, Algeria sign nuclear energy cooperation agreement, including uranium prospecting and mining
Russia and Algeria signed an intergovernmental agreement Wednesday (Sep. 3) to cooperate in nuclear energy, paving the way for possible construction of a nuclear power plant in the North African country, Russia's state-run nuclear corporation Rosatom said.
It envisages cooperation in the construction of nuclear power plants and research reactors, the use of nuclear reactors for heat generation and desalination of seawater, joint prospecting and mining of uranium deposits, nuclear fuel handling and processing of nuclear waste.
(RIA Novosti Sep. 3, 2014)
Uranium mining not any time soon in Algeria
The National Agency for the Mining Assets (ANPM) said Wednesday (June 20) in Algiers it was not considering the launch of tenders for uranium exploration in Algeria, adding that "this strategic metal" required "a specific framework" for its operations.
(La Tribune June 20, 2012)
Jordan, Algeria sign nuclear energy cooperation deal, including uranium mining
On Jan. 26, 2010, Jordan and Algeria signed a cooperation agreement in the fields of energy, nuclear energy, oil and gas. Minutes were signed by both parties specialized in nuclear energy and the exchange of expertise and technology in the field of prospecting and mining of uranium ores.
(KUNA Jan. 27, 2010)
Algeria launches uranium prospecting licences process in Tamanrasset area
On Aug. 9, 2009, Algeria's National Agency for Mining Patrimony launched a prequalification process to explore and prospect for uranium in the Saharan Tamanrasset area. (Dow Jones Aug. 9, 2009)
France and Algeria sign nuclear power accord, including uranium exploration and production
On June 21, 2008, France and former colony Algeria signed defence and civil nuclear power accords.
An accord on the peaceful use of nuclear energy provides for cooperation in research, training, technology transfer and the exploration and production of uranium, sectors of interest to French nuclear plant builder Areva.
(Reuters June 21, 2008)
Ministry of Energy and Mining holds symposium on uranium resources in Algeria
On Oct. 1, 2005, the Algerian Ministry of Energy and Mining holds a symposium on the uranium resources in the country and their valorization.
> View symposium announcement: Resources and the Valorization of Uranium in Algeria
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Romania to invest in uranium exploration in Angola
Three agreements of economical cooperation will be signed by Romania and Angola in January 2010. Romania then plans to make considerable investments in the exploration and mining of iron, copper, uranium, diamonds and, as well as in the energy and oil sectors.
(Angola Press Dec. 2, 2009)
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Letlhakane
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In Botswana, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by
Uramin Inc.,
Bannerman Resources Limited,
Mount Burgess Mining NL ,
African Energy Resources (Guernsey) Ltd ,
A-Cap Energy Ltd ,
Aquentium, Inc. ,
Mootah Energetic Pty. Ltd.,
Impact Minerals Ltd ,
Cardia Technologies Ltd ,
Cam Bow Holdings (Pty) Ltd ,
Tsodilo Resources Ltd ,
Gcwihaba Resources (Pty) Ltd. ,
Sechaba Natural Resources Pty Ltd
Over one hundred uranium prospecting licences issued in Botswana
Some 138 prospecting licences have been issued for the exploration of uranium and, according to minerals minister, Ponatshego Kedikilwe, such activity is taking place "across the length and breadth of Botswana".
The areas covered by the licenses are in the districts of southern, north east, south east, Ngamiland, Kweneng, Kgalagadi, Gantsi and central.
This information came in response to a question posed by Mahalapye East MP, Botlogile Tshireletso.
(Sunday Standard Mar. 15, 2009)
16 uranium exploration licenses granted on Bushman land since evictions
Since the Bushmen were forced off their land in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR) in 2002, the Botswana government has granted 112 mining licenses for mining companies to explore in the reserve. 16 licenses have been awarded for uranium exploration and 40 for coal.
It is just over six years since the government evicted more than 600 Bushmen from the reserve, although it has always denied any connection between mining and the evictions.
The Bushmen won the right to return to their land inside the reserve in a landmark ruling at Botswana's High Court in 2006, where the judges recognized that the evictions had been 'unlawful' and 'unconstitutional'. But the Botswana government is doing all it can to stop the Bushmen from going home, banning them from using a water borehole to get water inside the reserve, and stopping them from hunting for food. Meanwhile, any mines in the reserve will have to drill multiple boreholes to operate, and will create massive disruption to both the Bushmen and the wildlife.
(Survival International March 3, 2009)
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Scoping Study released on Letlhakane uranium mine project:
On Sep. 19, 2024, Lotus Resources Ltd announced the results of the Scoping Study for its Letlhakane Uranium Project in Botswana.
The study is based on a uranium price of US$ 80 per lb U3O8.
> Calculate Mine Feasibility
Chinese tycoon seeks majority share in company owning Letlhakane uranium mine project:
He Jiandong, a Chinese engineering tycoon, has mounted a US$5 million bid for control of A-Cap Energy, the firm developing the Letlhakane Uranium Mine near Serule which is ranked in the world's top 10 undeveloped uranium projects.
A-Cap shareholders are due to vote on the offer by March and although directors have said the offer is unfair, they also say it is reasonable.
Jiandong's Shenke Holdings has tabled an offer to Jiangsu Shengen Resources group for its 41% stake in A-Cap. That stake would give Jiandong control of the firm, with the two other major investors holding a collective 34%.
(A-Cap Energy Jan. 7, 2020, Mmegi Jan. 17, 2020)
Construction of Letlhakane uranium mine project deferred by another two years:
On Aug. 21, 2019, A-Cap Energy Ltd announced that the Botswana Minister of Mineral Resources, Green Technology and Energy Security has approved to delay the construction of the Letlhakane Uranium Project by another two years to Oct. 30, 2021.
Name change of owner of Letlhakane uranium mine project:
On Nov. 26, 2018, A-Cap Resources Ltd announced a name change to A-Cap Energy Ltd.
Construction of Letlhakane uranium mine project deferred by two years:
On Sep. 22, 2017, A-Cap Resources Ltd announced that the Botswana Department of Mines has approved to delay the construction of the Letlhakane Uranium Project by two years, as requested by the company in view of the "delayed recovery in the price of uranium" and ongoing optimisation work for the proposed mine and mill.
Villagers to be resettled for Letlhakane uranium mine project:
This week, the Australia-based company [A-Cap Resources Ltd ] said it has embarked on a comprehensive consultation and engagement with communities affected by the envisaged project in those villages in the Central District.
Environmental consultants, Ecosurv , have been tasked, in conjunction with the Tonota Sub-Land Board, to prepare the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP). "The Tonota Sub-Land Board has convened an assessment committee that comprises two technical officers and three members of the board," A-Cap said.
It added that the committee is expected to work with A-Cap and Ecosurv during the development of the RAP, which will ultimately guide the developer during the compensation phase.
The consultation kicks off today in the Serule and Gojwane villages, where the development of a mine and wellfield will take place.
(Mmegi Apr. 28, 2017)
Letlhakane uranium mine project obtains mining licence:
On Sep. 9, 2016, A-Cap announced that the Botswana Department of Mines approved the company's application for a mining licence for the Lethlakane Uranium Project. A-Cap further announced that Jiangsu Chixiang Precision Gear Co., Ltd has increased its shareholdings in the company to 41.76%.
Letlhakane uranium mine project obtains provisional surface rights:
On June 16, 2016, A-Cap announced that the Mmadinare Sub Land Board granted A-Cap provisional surface rights over the 144 square kilometer area covering the Letlhakane Uranium Project. The surface rights are provisional upon compensation for the affected land rights holders in the area being resolved.
Letlhakane uranium mine project obtains environmental approval:
On May 18, 2016, A-Cap announced that the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Letlhakane Uranium Project has been approved by the Botswana Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA).
Mining licence application submitted for Letlhakane uranium mine in spite of shaky economics:
On Sep. 11, 2015, A-Cap Resources Ltd. announced that the mining licence application for the Letlhakane uranium mine was submitted to the Botswana Department of Mines on the 18th August 2015.
The company also announced that a "Technical Study" - prepared by the company itself (!) - now determined lower operating costs of US$ 41 per lb U3O8 over a 18 year mine life. The study is based on unreliable resources data and moreover assumes an extraordinary uranium price of US$ 81 per lb U3O8 over the mine life.
Letlhakane uranium mine to open in 2016:
The Botswana Chamber of Mines Chief Executive Officer, Charles Siwawa has revealed to Gazette Business that the first uranium mine in Botswana will be opened in 2016 around the Serule area which proves to be profitable.
First production at the mine is anticipated for quarter two (Q2) of 2016 with an annual output of 3 million pounds of uranium [1,154 t U] with the mining to last over 20 years.
(Botswana Gazette Feb. 13, 2014)
On Feb. 22, 2013, A-Cap Resources Ltd announced "favourable economics" from the scoping study on the Letlhakane uranium project. However, the expected operating cost (US$ 48.41 per lb U3O8 for the first ten years, and US$ 58.17 over the whole 20-year lifetime) alone will be higher than current market prices. The company expects the uranium price to rise significantly in view of an anticipated supply shortage.
An Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) was completed and submitted to the Botswana Government for review and the final ESIA will be submitted in Q2 2011.
(A-Cap)
On July 20, 2009, A-Cap Resources Ltd announced the commencement of a bankable feasibility study for the Letlhakane uranium project.
EIA Progress:
"The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of the Letlhakane Uranium Project commenced in late January 2009. The EIA studies are designed to run for twelve months to collect important environmental data from the three climatic seasons in Botswana. To date the specialist studies for AquaticWildlife and Radiation Background have commenced data collection.
Public participation and information meetings have been held at the local villages of Gojwane and Serule. A further meeting for local government officials has been held at the Tonota District Land Board. These compulsory meetings are a crucial stepping stone in the EIA process where local communities have the right to learn about the planned development. No objections from the local communities were registered during the process."
(A-Cap Resources Ltd March 16, 2009)
On Oct. 17, 2008, A-Cap Resources Ltd released the result of a scoping study conducted by SRK Consulting. The preferred project option comprises the mining of 45 million tonnes of ore (at a grade of 180 ppm U3O8 [0.0153% U]) containing 18 million lbs U3O8 [6,923 t U]. The target annual production rate at an assumed leaching recovery of 80% is 2.2 million lbs U3O8 [846 t U].
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The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Burkina Faso:
Pancontinental Gold Corporation ,
Crossland Strategic Metals Ltd ,
Crosscontinental Uranium Limited ,
Southern Cross Exploration NL ,
Longreach Oil Ltd
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The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Burundi:
International Gold Exploration IGE AB
East African phosphate fertilizers contain uranium concentrations found elsewhere in uranium ores
> View here
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The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Cameroon:
Mega Uranium Cameroon plc,
Uranex SA ,
Resource Generation Ltd ,
African Aura Resources Ltd. ,
Ridgeway Energy Ltd ,
Caminex,
East Mining Corporation (EMCO) S.A.,
Fer Du Cameroun,
Xplor-Tech
NGOs publish booklet about uranium in Cameroon
Cameroon's Network for the War on Hunger (Réseau de Lutte contre la Faim - RELUFA) co-produced with other NGOs a "booklet with practical information about Uranium and its exploitation in Cameroon".
> Download L'uranium au Cameroun, Quelques informations pratiques , Juin 2011 (2.3M PDF - in French)
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Bakouma
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The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Central African Republic:
Uramin Inc.,
Uranio AG ,
Xenon S.A. ,
Les Mines De Centrafrique (CAR)
> View deposit info
Rebels take control of mining town Bakouma in Central African Republic:
The Popular Front for the Rebirth of Central African Republic (FPRC), an armed group from the former Séléka, has taken control of Bakouma, a mining town in south-central CAR.
The group, made up mostly of Muslims, summons the local authorities and the soldiers of the Minusca, the UN mission, to leave the city, according to the BBC Africa correspondent in Bangui.
According to a member of the city, there were dead people, houses and granaries burned, as well as massive displacements of people in the bush and in nearby towns, during the attack on Sunday [Jan. 6].
Abdoulaye Hissène, the leader of the FPRC, says that the rebel group intends to extend its control to the entire Bangassou prefecture, which includes the city of Bakouma.
(Reuters Jan. 7, 2019)
Government troops supported by UN peacekeepers have recaptured a uranium mining town in southeast Central African Republic, more than two weeks after it was seized by rebels, an official said Thursday [Jan. 17].
"The Central African army and MINUSCA have been in Bakouma since yesterday morning," Pierrette Benguéré, prefect for the Mboumou region, told AFP.
The armed group which had taken over the town, the Popular Front for the Rebirth of Central Africa (FPRC), has left, she said.
The FPRC is one of the biggest militia groups that emerged from a mainly Muslim rebel movement called the Seleka.
(SowetanLIVE Jan. 17, 2019)
Judicial investigation opened on irregularities in the Central African Republic at the occasion of Areva's acquisition of Uramin:
The national financial prosecutor of France opened a judicial investigation versus a person unknown on any commissions paid by the French nuclear group Areva to the Central African Republic in 2007 when it bought the Canadian mining company Uramin, it has become known on Wednesday from a judicial source.
This procedure was initiated on 27 March for "corruption of foreign public officials and private persons, embezzlement, breach of trust, forgery, money laundering, complicity and concealment," the source said, confirming a report in Canard enchaîné.
(Reuters May 6, 2015)
Gunmen attack Areva's Bakouma uranium mine project site, seize hostages:
Gunmen have attacked a uranium plant operated by French nuclear power giant Areva at Bakouma in the southeast of the Central African Republic, army and French diplomatic sources said Monday.
"A violent clash yesterday (Sunday) afternoon pitted" Central African troops against "an unidentified group of armed men attempting to launch an assault on the site of mining company Areva," a military statement said.
"The enemy did some material damage and pulled back while taking a sizeable quantity mainly of food with them," Lieutenant-Colonel Jean Ladawa said in the statement, which was read on national radio.
"For the moment, it's difficult to establish a casualty toll from the fighting. However, we sustained no losses either among personnel or the population at Bakouma," he said.
(AFP June 25, 2012)
Areva temporarily suspends Bakouma uranium mine project - in wake of Fukushima disaster:
The French Areva group officially suspended the uranium mining project in Central Africa for one to two years due to the repercussions of the Fukushima disaster. The project is not cancelled; Areva waits for the uranium market price to rise again, the current price being US$ 52 per lb U3O8, while it had been above US$ 68 per lb U3O8 before the Fukushima disaster. A peculiarity of the Bakouma deposit is the great difficulty to extract the uranium.
(Marchés tropicaux et méditerranéens Oct. 31, 2011; AFP Nov. 2, 2011)
Uranium activists arrested for one week: On Sep. 16, 2011, six environmental activists were arrested on their way from the Central African capital Bangui to Bakouma, where they wanted to hold a workshop on the environmental hazards of uranium mining. The activists, among them one from Belgium, were held in Bangui under military surveillance, without being informed about the reason for their detention. On Sep. 22, the six were released through mediation of the honorary consul nominee of Belgium in CAR.
(De Morgen Sep. 23, 2011)
Start-up of the Bakouma pilot project is planned for 2010. At full capacity, the mine will have an output of 2,000 tons per year.
(Areva: Discover Mining Activities, Dec. 2010)
Areva signs uranium mining deal with Central African Republic:
On Aug. 1, 2008, French nuclear group Areva signed a deal with the Central African Republic government to mine uranium at a previously disputed site, officials said.
The mine at Bakouma in the east of the Central African Republic (CAR) is due to start delivering uranium in 2010, with optimal production expected over the first three years, Areva chief executive Anne Lauvergeon added.
The deal ends friction between Areva and CAR, which handed mining rights to British-Canadian firm UraMin in 2006.
Areva bought out UraMin in July 2007, to the displeasure of the CAR government which said the "irregular" sale showed "disregard for the rights and interests" of the Central African people.
(AFP Aug. 1, 2008)
The Bakouma project in the Central African Republic is due to launch production in the fourth quarter of 2009, with an average production at 2600 tons a year. (Business Day March 30, 2007)
On Jan. 11, 2007, UraMin Inc. announced that GRD Minproc (Pty) Ltd., a subsidiary of GRD Ltd, has been appointed to undertake Consulting and Engineering Services for the completion of the Definitive Feasibility Study at its Bakouma Uranium Project in the Central African Republic.
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The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Chad:
Uramin Inc.,
Brinkley Mining PLC ,
Signet Mining Services Ltd ,
Blue Marine Global Ltd ,
Chad Mining Services
U.S. Court sentences Gabonese-French dual citizen to 24 months imprisonment for bribing African officials to obtain uranium concessions, among others
> View here
NGO workshop on uranium mining in central Africa issues declaration
On Sep. 14 - 18, 2009, NGOs from Chad, Central African Republic, Cameroon, and Niger held a workshop on uranium mining at Bakara, Chad.
> Download Declaration of Bakara, Sep. 18, 2009 (in French)
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Shinkolobwe
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The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in the Democratic Republic of the Congo:
Atlantis Sprl (Belgium),
Elemental Minerals Ltd ,
African Investment Group Congo
On Nov. 6, 2018, Katanga Mining Limited announced that its 75%-owned operating subsidiary, Kamoto Copper Company SA ("KCC"), will temporarily suspend the export and sale of cobalt at its Kamoto Project in the Democratic Republic of the Congo until further notice. The presence of uranium was recently detected in the cobalt hydroxide produced at the Kamoto Project in levels that exceed the acceptable limit allowed for export of the product through main African ports to customers.
KCC intends to construct an Ion Exchange system to remove uranium from cobalt produced at the project. The Ion Exchange system is expected to be commissioned by the end of the second quarter 2019 subject to obtaining the necessary approvals.
[The announcement contains neither data on the uranium concentrations and quantities identified, nor on the ultimate fate of the uranium that is to be separated from the cobalt product.]
On April 15, 2019, Katanga Mining Limited announced that its subsidiary Kamoto Copper Company has resumed the export and sale of a limited quantity of cobalt that complies with both international and local Democratic Republic of Congo transport regulations with respect to the levels of uranium.
Church group releases report on former and proposed uranium mining in DR Congo
On June 27, 2011, the Ecumenical Network Central Africa released a report on historic and possible future uranium mining (in particular by Areva) in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The report concludes with a list of recommendations adressing the German government and other donor states, the European Union, Areva, and the government of the DR Congo.
> Download Uranium Mining in the DR Congo: A Radiant Business for European Nuclear Companies? , Ecumenical Network Central Africa (Ed.), Berlin, June 2011, 28 p. (933k PDF)
Areva signs deal for uranium prospecting and mining in DR Congo
On March 30, 2009, the Katanga section of the NGO African Association for the defence of Human Rights (Association Africaine de Défense des Droits de l'Homme - ASADHO/Katanga ) demanded the public release of the contract on uranium exploration and exploitation concluded between the DR Congo and Areva on March 26, 2009, given the problems experienced with Areva's existing uranium mines in Niger.
Areva CEO Anne Lauvergeon has signed an agreement with Congolese Minister of Mines, Martin Kabwelulu, on uranium prospecting and mining.
The agreement includes the creation of a mixed commission tasked with developing a technical prospecting program. The work to be jointly performed by the parties will kick off with a detailed inventory of mining sites and update of all databases.
(AFP March 26, 2009)
Areva is considering a deal giving it rights to explore for uranium in DR Congo's southern Katanga province. Chief Executive Officer Anne Lauvergeon will be accompanying French President Nicolas Sarkozy when he visits the central African country this week.
(Bloomberg March 25, 2009)
Brinkley Mining PLC ceases operations in DR Congo
On Sep. 3, 2008, Brinkley Mining announced it has decided to terminate its operations in Chad and the Democratic Republic of Congo with immediate effect.
Brinkley Mining PLC signs contract for uranium exploitation venture in DR Congo
On July 9, 2007, Brinkley Mining PLC signed a contract for uranium exploitation in Congo in a partnership with the government.
The country's uranium mines (which produced material for the nuclear bombs the U.S. dropped on Japan in World War II) have been closed officially since 2000, though illegal mining has continued.
Brinkley signed a memorandum of understanding with Congo's government in November 2006, but negotiations were derailed in March when the government official who set up the deal was imprisoned on charges of illegally selling uranium [!].
Francois Lubala Toto, the commissioner in charge of the partnership, said Congo's General Commission for Atomic Energy would have a 25 percent stake in the venture, with Brinkley holding a 75 percent stake.
Brinkley Mining Chairman Gerard Holden told reporters the company hoped to start mining uranium within two years. He said the company's initial investment would be US$3 million, with US$10 million more in the first year of exploration.
(AP July 9, 2007)
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Areva unlikely to develop Shinkolobwe mine as instability persists in DR Congo:
Areva SA is unlikely to develop a uranium mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo while the country remains politically unstable, according to a company adviser.
"The political situation is such that it is still a bit tricky to make firm plans," Bertrand Barre, scientific adviser to Areva Chairwoman Anne Lauvergeon, said today in an interview in Johannesburg.
On a March 2009 trip to Congo, French President Nicolas Sarkozy sealed a joint-venture agreement to explore the mine, which produced the uranium used in atomic bombs dropped on Japan at the end of World War II. The deposit, called Shinkolobwe, was shut in the 1960s and its revival is now dependent on curbing the rebel attacks that remain commonplace after years of unrest.
(Bloomberg Feb. 8, 2011)
Areva in talks with DR Congo over possible uranium exploration at Shinkolobwe:
Democratic Republic of Congo and France's Areva are in talks over possible uranium exploration at a now-closed site that once produced material for the Hiroshima bomb.
Congo's largest uranium mine, Shinkolobwe, provided the uranium that went into the atomic bomb deployed by the United States on Japan in 1945 during the Second World War.
The site in the south of the vast and minerals-rich central African country was officially closed in 2004, but the United Nations has since cautioned that radioactive material from Congo is frequently smuggled out.
The site is in poor condition, likely suffering from leaks that would be costly to contain, and a lack of fencing is has opened it up to smuggling -- raising fears among Western diplomats that some of the uranium is reaching Iran.
(The Guardian Sep. 23, 2010)
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire / Belgian Congo) is suspected of trying to reopen the Shinkolobwe uranium mine with help from the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (North Korea). The two countries are closely cooperating in the military field and this cooperation could have been expanded to nuclear issues. During World War II, the mine had provided the uranium for the first US nuclear bombs. (Die Tageszeitung Aug 3, 1999)
On Feb. 7, 2000, North Korea denied media reports that it might be importing uranium from Congo to manufacture nuclear weapons. (AP Feb. 7, 2000)
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Egypt plans to start mining uranium in 2024
Egypt plans to start mining crude uranium in 2024 as part of the country's rapidly developing program for peaceful use of nuclear energy, Amr El-Hag Ali, chairman of the Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA) , said on Tuesday (Dec. 13).
Since crude uranium cannot be used in nuclear power plant reactors, Cairo will have to send it to other countries for processing, the EAEA chief noted. At the same time, Egypt owns one of the nine plants for the production of nuclear fuel in the world, El-Hag said. This will allow Cairo to save money, given that it is more expensive to import fuel than to produce it domestically, he added.
(UrduPoint/Sputnik Dec. 14, 2022)
Egypt invites Russia to join nuclear power plant, uranium mining projects
Egypt has invited Russia to join a project to build a nuclear power plant (NPP) in the country and to develop Egyptian uranium deposits, Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak said on Friday (Apr. 19).
(RIA Novosti Apr. 19, 2013)
Egypt announces uranium discoveries
The Nuclear Materials Authority announced the discovery of huge amounts of uranium ore.
Mohsen Ali Mohamadeen, head of the Nuclear Materials Authority, says the uranium was discovered in high concentrations in five main areas, included Abu Zenima in Sinai, Abu Rashid on the Red Sea, Sila in Upper Egypt, and the Gtar area, which is located 70 kilometers away from Hurghada.
"Because uranium is considered an important strategic raw material, the plan is to use it mainly as fuel for energy production," Mohamadeen explains.
(Egypt Independent Jan. 18, 2013)
Egypt runs pilot scale plant for uranium extraction from phosphoric acid
Egypt's assured phosphate reserves of 700 million t contain 40,000 t of uranium at average concentrations of 60 ppm. A pilot scale plant for the extraction of uranium from phosphoric acid obtained from the Abu Zaabal Fertilizer And Chemical Co. is being operated by the Nuclear Materials Authority.
Source: Extraction of Uranium from Egyptian Phoshates Pilot Scale, by Mohamadin Mohsen, Egypt, IAEA Technical Meeting on "Uranium Exploration and Mining Methods", 17 - 21 November 2008, Amman, Jordan
Russia signs agreement with Egypt on exploration and mining of uranium
Russia signed a cooperation agreement with Egypt in the exploration and mining of uranium. Rosatom director general Sergei Kiriyenko said: "Egypt has very promising uranium deposits and is ready to cooperate with us in uranium prospecting and, in future, uranium mining."
(World Nuclear News June 25, 2009)
A small plane belonging to the Egyptian government's Nuclear Materials Authority crashed over northern Egypt on Jan. 15, 2008, killing two pilots, security sources and state media said. Security sources said the plane crashed in the town of Port Said, located at the northern entrance to the Suez Canal. The sources and state news agency MENA said the aircraft was on a reconnaissance flight.
MENA said the aircraft was used to detect radioactivity and to search for metals, including uranium, in the Gulf of Suez and the Egyptian desert.
(Reuters Jan. 15, 2008)
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Equatorial Guinea awards first concession for exploration and potential mining of uranium:
The Ministry of Mines and Hydrocarbons has listed in a statement the concessions of 15 blocks to five foreign companies or groups. Seven were awarded to the American Blue Magnolia Investments LLC, including copper, platinum, gold, uranium, bauxite and lead, [...].
(Le Figaro Nov. 27, 2019)
Equatorial Guinea's Ministry of Mines and Hydrocarbons (MMH) has signed the first mining contracts in the country's history, following the conclusion of the country's inaugural mining bidding round last year.
The ministry signed five mining contracts [...].
Other contracts included three prospecting contracts with Blue Magnolia in Block B for bauxite and precious metals, Block K for gold and Block H for gold, uranium, iron-ore, bauxite, basic metals and rare earth minerals [...].
The newly appointed contractors are expected to start exploration activities in the Rio Muni area [...].
(Mining Weekly May 18, 2020)
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Ethiopia suspends tantalum mining and export until domestic refining plant operational, allowing also for by-product recovery of uranium:
Ethiopia suspended tantalum mining and exports until the country acquires the capability to refine the mineral in a bid to earn more revenues from exports. The decision means that Ethiopia will not export tantalum until the nation has an operating processing plant said Tamrat Modjo, Head of the Traditional Mining Department of the Ministry of Mines .
It is expected that the processing plant will require an investment of 500 million birr [US$ 28 million].
The ban, signed into effect by Sinknesh Ejigu, Minister of Mines, is also due to the increasing contamination with uranium, a radioactive element, which is making it impossible to ship the raw material.
The uranium contaminated mineral has been mined by local traditional miners with no negative health consequences reported as of yet explained Traditional Mining Department of the MoM.
(Ethiopian Business News May 29, 2012)
Russia assisting Ethiopia with uranium exploration:
The Ethiopian Geological Survey , in collaboration with the Russian Geological Survey, is assessing the uranium deposit discovered six years ago in Bale zone, in the Oromia Regional State. The amount of deposit of uranium ore is not yet determined. However, the samples tested at the geochemical laboratory of the Ministry of Mines have shown positive results. The testing results were confirmed by another geochemical laboratory in Canada.
Recently, the Russian Geological Survey, Zaru Bezggeologia, started assisting the uranium exploration projects being undertaken in Bale and Borena. Financed by the Russian government, Zaru Bezggeologia, is providing technical assistance to the geological survey. The project was launched at the end of last January.
(Ethiopian Reporter Apr. 16, 2011)
Russia is currently cooperating with the Ethiopian Geological Survey in the study of fields and the assessment of potential uranium reserves in Ethiopia.
(Addis Fortune Mar. 22, 2011)
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In Gabon, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by Areva,
Lucara Diamond Corp. ,
Cameco Corp.,
Renova
Areva eyes resumption of uranium mining in Gabon
Mandated by AREVA, the French firm, Géotech began on March 9, 2009, its uranium prospecting flights in the vicinity of Franceville, Moanda and Mounana in the Gabonese Haut-Ogooué province, 650 km south-east of Libreville.
According to the AREVA unit in Mounana, research done years ago show that about 26,000 tons of uranium are usable in the area.
During her last visit to Mounana in January, 2009, AREVA executive board chairwoman Anne Lauvergeon said they need at least 30,000 tons to begin operations.
(APA March 9, 2009)
Gabon willing to supply uranium to non-NPT signatory India
Gabon has conveyed that it will not be averse to supplying uranium to India.
Sources tracking India's engagement of Africa told this newspaper that Gabon is willing to enter into a commercial transaction with India. New Delhi is studying the possibility of reciprocating by enhancing its civil and military cooperation with Gabon, a source said, adding that the Mumbai-based Taurian Resources has made a foray into Niger's uranium mining industry. The sources maintained that India needs to refocus attention on the non-Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) countries also because of the reluctance of Australia, Canada and Kazakhstan to supply uranium to non-NPT signatories like India.
(The Asian Age Feb. 5, 2008)
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The tiny West African country of Gambia has discovered commercially-exploitable deposits of uranium and other rare minerals, President Yahya Jammeh said on Jan. 19, 2008.
(Reuters Jan. 19, 2008)
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India to offer Ghana technical expertise and assistance for mining of uranium
As India extended lines of credit to Ghana for socio-economic development in the African state, both countries today also agreed to explore opportunities for cooperation in civilian use of nuclear energy during delegation-level talks as part of the state visit of President Pranab Mukherjee to the African country.
Terming this a “starting point” in nuclear cooperation between the two countries, government officials said India had the technology and expertise that could be used by Ghana.
While a definite roadmap on nuclear cooperation is yet to be formulated and the subject is still in the conceptual stage, Ministry of External Affairs officials say while India can offer technical expertise and assistance to Ghana for (peaceful use of nuclear energy), Ghana has uranium deposits that can be optimally exploited and is also aiming to generate electricity from nuclear plants in around 10 years.
(Tribune India June 14, 2016)
Ghana invites investors to develop mineral deposits, including uranium deposits
"Ghana has made more discoveries of mineral deposits which are expected to boost the country's economy and development. The deposits include copper, phosphate, nickel, chromium and uranium.
The government has, therefore, invited the investor community to partner it to develop the country's enormous natural resources in an efficient, economic and environmentally sustainable manner that will ensure the sustainable development of the country."
(Ghana Government Portal Nov. 3, 2010)
Traces of uranium identified in tailings from Ghana gold mines
The acting Director of Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), Dr B.J.B. Nyarko, has said that the country stands the chance of striking uranium deposits in commercial quantities since there is an association between gold and uranium.
He explained that a study of gold tailings at the Nuclear Research Reactor at Kwabenya revealed traces of uranium in pits in gold-mining areas in the country.
Dr Nyarko said the research, carried out by GAEC, was not on a large scale and that a major prospecting and exploration was needed to establish the link.
(MJFM Apr. 22, 2008)
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Firawa
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In Guinea, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by
Forte Energy NL,
Toro Energy Ltd.,
Contico,
Burey Gold Ltd
> View deposit info
On Jan. 31, 2011, Forte Energy NL announced the commencement of pre-feasibility activities for its Firawa uranium project. The company has appointed contractors for the metallurgical testing and process design and for environmental and anthropological surveys.
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Kenya claims to have uranium deposits
"You will be surprised to learn we have uranium," Energy Principal Secretary Joseph Njoroge said, without giving details of how much uranium Kenya has and where it came from. There have been low levels of uranium oxide found in Kwale county and prospectors have in the past been licensed to look in Kajiado. Tanzania has large deposits near the Kenya border in the Kilimanjaro area.
(Business Day Oct. 13, 2015)
Kenya revokes mineral exploration licenses
Mining Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala has cancelled 65 mineral exploration licences in a bid to streamline mining activities. In a gazette notice, Mr Balala said some licences had expired while others had been surrendered by the holders.
He noted that the other licences belonged to companies that had breached the Mining Act provisions and licensing regulations. The cancellation has left close to 4.5 million acres of land available for exploration.
Some of the companies whose licences have been cancelled are Saharco Group International Company Ltd, Yongtai Mining Company Ltd, Pan African Chemicals Ltd, Laholmes Machinery, African Uranium Kenya Ltd and Bisil Mining Company Ltd.
(Standard Kenya Apr. 12, 2015)
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In Libya, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by Areva
Uranium ore concentrate missing from Libyan site, IAEA finds:
U.N. nuclear watchdog inspectors have found that roughly 2.5 tons of natural uranium have gone missing from a Libyan site that is not under government control, the watchdog told member states in a statement on Wednesday (Mar. 15) seen by Reuters.
The finding is the result of an inspection originally planned for last year that "had to be postponed because of the security situation in the region" and was finally carried out on Tuesday (Mar. 14), according to the confidential statement by International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi.
IAEA inspectors "found that 10 drums containing approximately 2.5 tons of natural uranium in the form of UOC (uranium ore concentrate) previously declared by (Libya) ... as being stored at that location were not present at the location," the one-page statement said.
The agency would carry out "further activities" to determine the circumstances of the uranium's removal from the site, which it did not name, and where it is now, the statement added.
(Reuters Mar. 15, 2023)
Most of the roughly 2.5 tons of natural uranium ore concentrate (UOC) recently declared missing from a site in Libya have been found at that site, the U.N. nuclear watchdog told member states on Friday (Mar. 24) in a statement seen by Reuters.
(Reuters Mar. 24, 2023)
Guardsmen of Sabha yellow cake uranium warehouse stage blockade demanding unpaid salaries:
One of Sebha's most important brigades has shut the town's petrol storage tanks and blocked a key road in a dispute over unpaid salaries.
Up to 40 members of the 10th Brigade (which guards the Sebha uranium storage facility) closed the fuel storage facility on Monday (Nov. 11) demanding overdue salary payments dating back to 2011.
The Sebha storage facility holds at least 2,263 tonnes of uranium ore concentrate (UOC) – also known as yellowcake – imported from various sources between 1978 and 2002, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). A conversion facility had been planned at Sebha but this was never built. Although Qaddafi renounced his chemical and nuclear weapons programme in 2003, ten years later the stockpiles remain.
A report by UK newspaper The Times last month said that Bharuddin Midhoun Arifi, the commander of an unnamed group in charge of guarding the stockpiles, said that his men were frightened of the uranium. "My men don't like guarding the site as they believe it will make their skin fall off, so we guard it from a nearby checkpoint," he reportedly said, adding: "Maybe someone could steal one or two drums if they wanted, but not more."
(Libya Herald Nov. 13, 2013 - emphasis added)
Future of Libya's yellowcake uranium stock still unclear:
Libya still has not decided what to do with uranium ore concentrate amassed under its late dictator, Agence France-Presse reported on Monday (Sep. 23).
The country was reportedly holding 6,400 barrels of the "yellowcake" uranium at a warehouse in Sabha.
Foreign Minister Muhammad Abdul Aziz said his country "is trying to determine if the concentrated uranium can be used for peaceful nuclear energy purposes or sold to countries which use the product for peaceful purposes."
An independent think tank in Tripoli, though, has reportedly advised the government to use the material in its nascent nuclear-power program, as well as for "industrial and agricultural development."
(National Journal Sep. 23, 2013)
Yellow Cake uranium found stored near Sabha:
The U.N. atomic agency said on Thursday (Sep. 22) that Libya's previous government had stored raw uranium near Sabha, after CNN reported that anti-Gaddafi forces had found a military site containing what appeared to be radioactive material.
The CNN crew "saw two large warehouses there, one containing thousands of blue barrels, some marked with tape saying ''radioactive,'' and several plastic bags of yellow powder sealed with the same tape," it said on its website.
In Vienna, IAEA spokeswoman Gill Tudor said: "We can confirm that there is yellow cake stored in drums at a site near Sabha ... which Libya previously declared to the IAEA."
Referring to measures to make sure material is not diverted to non-peaceful purposes, she added: "The IAEA has tentatively scheduled safeguards activities at this location once the situation in the country stabilizes."
(Reuters Sep. 22, 2011)
Canada and Libya sign agreement for nuclear cooperation, including uranium mining
Libya and Canada have signed a memorandum of intent on nuclear power, the fourth signed by Tripoli in the past two years, an official said on Thursday (July 30).
The memorandum foresees cooperation between the two countries in research and the mining, processing and transport of uranium, as well as its use in medicine and desalination projects.
Since July 2007, Libya has signed another three similar agreements with France, Russia and Ukraine.
(AFP July 30, 2009)
France and Libya sign agreement for nuclear cooperation, including uranium exploration
France has signed a nuclear cooperation agreement with Libya, adding to previous such agreements signed with other North African nations.
The accord provides for cooperation between France and Libya in several fields of the peaceful use of nuclear energy, including the generation of electricity, water desalination, exploration of uranium, and investment and training in nuclear energy. It also provides for conducting basic research and developing applications of nuclear energy in medicine, agriculture and industry, as well as cooperation in radiation protection and related areas.
In February 2007, Libya's National Bureau for Research and Development was reported to have signed a memorandum of understanding with Areva under which Areva would help to determine Libya's uranium mining potential.
(WNN July 11, 2008)
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In Madagascar, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by
Cline Mining Corp.,
Uranium Corporation of Madagascar SARL (URAMAD),
Tranomaro Mineral Development Corporation Ltd (UK),
MDC (Madagascar),
LP Hill Plc ,
Pencari Mining Corporation ,
Minvest Madagascar SA,
Haddington Resources Ltd ,
Red Island Resources,
Uranium Star Corp. ,
Malagasy Minerals Ltd ,
Varun Energy Corporation
Madagascar looking to revive halted uranium exploration
Madagascar's uranium mining regulator is looking to revive exploration on the island by asking companies to work together and reprocessing geological data compiled in the 1980s for investors.
All uranium exploration in Madagascar has halted since a political crisis began early last year, Joeli Valérien Lalaharisaina, general director of the Office for National Mining and Strategic Industries said. President Andry Rajoelina ousted his predecessor, Marc Ravalomanana, with the support of the military in March, 2009.
(Bloomberg Oct. 21, 2010)
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Faléa
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The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Mali:
Cascade Resources Ltd. ,
Northern Canadian Uranium Inc. ,
Rockgate Capital Corp.,
Oklo Resources Ltd
> View deposit info
Opposition to uranium mining in Faléa: Association des ressortissants et
amis de la Commune de Faléa (ARACF)
GoviEx Uranium Inc. acquires Faléa mine project: On June 13, 2016, GoviEx Uranium Inc. and Denison Mines Corp. announced the completion of the transaction to combine their respective African uranium interests, previously announced on March 30, 2016.
Under the terms of the Transaction, GoviEx has acquired Denison's wholly owned subsidiary, Rockgate Capital Corp., which holds all of Denison's Africa-based uranium interests, in exchange for 56,050,450 shares of GoviEx and 22,420,180 common share purchase warrants of GoviEx.
Denison becomes majority owner of Faléa mine project:
On Nov. 18, 2013, Denison Mines Corp. announced that, as of 4:00 p.m. (Toronto time) today, approximately 100,541,657 common shares of Rockgate Capital Corp. have been validly deposited to Denison's offer to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Rockgate. Denison has taken up and accepted for payment all of such shares, representing approximately 86% of the outstanding shares.
On Jan. 17, 2014, Denison announced that it now has acquired all shares of Rockgate.
Pre-Feasibility study on Faléa mine project started:
On Nov. 15, 2012, Rockgate Capital Corp. announced the commencement of a Pre-Feasibility study on its Faléa U-Ag-Cu project in south-west Mali. Rockgate has engaged the services of the DRA Group of Johannesburg, South Africa to complete the study.
Environmental and social baseline studies commissioned on Faléa mine project:
On April 26, 2010, Rockgate Capital Corp. announced that it has commissioned environmental and social baseline studies on the Faléa Project, Mali.
Reguibat · Tiris
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The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Mauritania:
Forte Energy NL,
Alba Mineral Resources PLC ,
Mauritania Ventures Ltd ,
Shield Mining Ltd ,
Aura Energy Ltd ,
Alecto Minerals Plc ,
Mauritania Resources Ltd,
Lusitania Uranium Mauritania ,
Agrineq SA,
Earthaston Ressources,
Orecorp Mauritania Sarl
(formerly Reguibat project)
> View deposit info
Update for Front End Engineering Design study announced for Tiris uranium mine project:
On Sep. 11, 2024, Aura Energy Ltd announced the results of an update of the Front End Engineering Design study for the Tiris uranium mine project, taking into account the recently expanded mineral resource and extending the mine life from 17 to 25 years.
The study is based on a uranium price of US$ 80 per lb U3O8.
> Calculate Mine Feasibility
Tiris uranium mine project obtains final permit for construction and operation:
On July 15, 2024, Aura Energy Ltd announced that it has received from the Mauritanian Government the last outstanding material permit to allow the construction and operation of the Tiris Uranium Project. The authorisation to develop, mine and produce Uranium Oxide Concentrate was issued by the National Authority for Radiation Protection, Safety and Nuclear Security (L'Autorité Nationale de Radioprotection de Sûreté et de Sécurité Nucléaire) on the 12 July 2024.
Front End Engineering Design study announced for Tiris uranium mine project:
On Feb. 28, 2024, Aura Energy Ltd announced the results of a Front End Engineering Design ("FEED") study, which "confirms excellent economics" for the Tiris uranium mine project. The FEED study is based on a uranium price of US$ 80 per lb U3O8.
"Enhanced" feasibility study announced for Tiris uranium mine project:
On Mar. 29, 2023, Aura Energy announced an "enhanced" definitive feasibility study (DFS) for its Tiris uranium mine project.
The study is based on a uranium price of US$ 65 per lb U3O8.
Mining and export license application documents submitted for Tiris uranium mine project:
On Sep. 6, 2022, Aura Energy Limited announced that it has submitted draft Key
Management Plans ("KMPs") for Tiris to the National Authority for Radioprotection, Safety and Nuclear Security ("ARSN") in Mauritania. These plans form the core information assessed as part of the ARSN's authorisation for uranium production at Tiris and for the export of uranium oxide concentrate ("UOC") from Mauritania. KMPs also form the basis for management of radiation safety and safe transport of uranium from Tiris, following international guidelines.
Updated feasibility study with increased capital cost announced for Tiris uranium mine project:
On Aug. 18, 2021, Aura Energy announced an updated definitive feasibility study (DFS) with an increase in the capital cost for its Tiris uranium mine project.
Positive feasibility study announced for Tiris uranium mine project, assuming uranium sales price at least twice current prices:
On July 29, 2019, Aura Energy Ltd announced the results of a definitive feasibility study (DFS) conducted for its Tiris uranium mine project.
> Download: Aura Energy release July 29, 2019 (including executive summary of DFS) (5.7MB PDF)
Offtake agreement signed for not-yet-existing Tiris uranium mine:
On Jan. 29, 2019, Aura Energy Ltd announced that it has signed a binding off-take agreement with Curzon Uranium Trading Limited ("Curzon") for the sale of its uranium production from the Tiris Uranium Project.
The agreement with Curzon covers the sale of 800,000 pounds of uranium production [308 t U] at fixed prices with a further 1.8 million pounds of uranium [692 t U] production available to Curzon as option volumes at fixed and market pricing. The agreement is over a seven-year period starting from the commencement of production and extendable thereafter by mutual consent.
The average price of the agreement is above US$44 per pound U3O8 compared with the current spot price of around US$29 per pound U3O8 and comfortably above Tiris' total operating cost.
Tiris uranium mine project obtains exploitation licence:
On Dec. 18, 2018, Aura Energy Ltd announced the grant of the Tiris Uranium
Project Exploitation Licence.
Aura expects to receive the executed Presidential Decree approving the Exploitation Licence
before the end of the year.
By-product recovery of vanadium eyed for Tiris uranium mine project:
On Oct. 17, 2018, Aura Energy Limited announced that "technical investigations during the Tiris Definitive Feasibility Study have indicated the potential for the recovery of vanadium from the Tiris Uranium Project process streams. [...]
The vanadium price has risen approximately 500% over the past 3 years and was recently quoted at US$28.10 per lb [...]
Vanadium occurs in the Tiris ore at a grade of 330 ppm V2O5, a similar concentration to that of U3O8. Approximately half of this vanadium occurs within the uranium host mineral carnotite. [...]"
Tiris uranium mine project obtains environmental government approval:
On Oct. 5, 2017, Aura Energy Limited announced that the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for the Tiris Uranium Project in Mauritania has been approved by the Mauritanian Government.
Economics of Tiris uranium mine project improved by reduction of operating costs:
On Aug. 30, 2017, Aura Energy Limited announced that following ongoing metallurgical optimisation and modelling, particularly around the leach reagent recycle and consumption, the operating cost for the Tiris Uranium Project has been reduced by an estimated 35%. The estimated Tiris operating cost now stands at US$19.40/lb U3O8.
Mining lease application submitted for Tiris uranium mine project:
On May 24, 2017, Aura Energy Limited announced that it has submitted the mining lease application for its Tiris project. "As part of the application Aura Energy completed an exhaustive Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) covering all aspect of the project including community consultation in the regions close to the project location."
Feasibility Study initiated for Tiris uranium mine project:
On Dec. 7, 2016, Aura Energy Ltd announced the recommencement of the Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) for the shallow open-pit Tiris uranium mine project. The target for completion of the study is end 2017.
Energy China to become partner in development of Tiris uranium project:
On Feb. 4, 2016, Aura Energy Ltd announced that it has executed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the development of the Tiris Project in Mauritania with China Energy Engineering Group Guangdong Power Engineering Co., Ltd. (GPEC), a subsidiary of China Energy Engineering Corporation Limited (CEEC) .
Positive scoping study announced for Reguibat uranium mine project, assuming uranium sales price way above current prices:
On July 16, 2014, Aura Energy Ltd announced: "This preliminary Scoping Study of Reguibat has confirmed an extremely robust Project with very shallow mineralisation upgraded via simple beneficiation to high-grade leach feed. This results in a leach plant processing a low annual tonnage and achieved with low upfront capital and low operating costs." The study assumes a uranium price of US$ 65 per lb U3O8 - way above the current spot and term prices.
Test work indicates potential to improve economics of Reguibat mine project:
On Sep. 26, 2013, Aura Energy Ltd announced that sorting tests showed that the grade of the mill feed can be increased by a factor of five (from 0.028 to 0.15% U), while retaining 89% of the uranium.
On Dec. 2, 2013, Aura Energy Ltd announced that further testing has shown that the grade of the mill feed can be increased by a factor of 7 (to 0.21% U), while retaining 86% of the uranium.
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The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in
Morocco:
Toro Energy Ltd ,
Metalex Ventures Ltd.
Russia approves draft nuclear cooperation agreement with Morocco, including prospecting and exploitation of uranium deposits
The Russian Government approved a cooperation project in the field of peaceful use of nuclear energy with Morocco, according to a provision by the Russian Prime Minister, Mikhail Mishustin, published on the official legal information portal. [...]
The agreement also contemplates Russian assistance in the prospecting and exploitation of uranium deposits [...].
(ABC Oct. 13, 2022)
Areva to study feasibility of uranium extraction from phosphates in Morocco
On Oct. 22, 2007, Areva signed an agreement with Morocco's national phosphate company Office Chérifien des Phosphates (OCP) to develop their cooperation and research initiatives regarding extraction of uranium contained in phosphoric acid produced from Moroccan phosphate ore. Uranium resources in Moroccan phosphate deposits are estimated at around 6 million tonnes. AREVA and the OCP plan to launch a joint study into the feasibility of an industrial site producing uranium from phosphoric acid.
(Areva Oct. 23, 2007)
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The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Mozambique:
Omegacorp Ltd.,
Mantra Resources Ltd.,
Uramin Inc.,
Kenmare Resources Plc. ,
Helio Resource Corp. ,
Jacana Resources Ltd ,
Mavuzi Resources Ltd ,
Teal Exploration & Mining Inc ,
Red Rock Resources PLC ,
North River Resources plc ,
MRG Metals Ltd
> See extra page
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Mika
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In Nigeria, uranium exploration is performed by:
Kulfana Mining Company Ltd,
Ecophoenix Limited ,
Lunar K Limited,
Western Goldfields Limited ,
Garbson Resources Ltd,
Obye Mineralogy,
Bebeyi Merchants Limited ,
Baxville Minerals Nig Ltd,
Uramin Nigeria Ltd,
Adamawa Mining Company Limited
Alleged illegal extraction of uranium in Gwande Local Government Area of Benue State
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has pledged to take decisive action against those involved in the alleged illegal extraction of uranium in Gwande Local Government Area of Benue State after uncovering discrepancies in presentations by stakeholders.
(Naija247news April 19, 2024)
Chinese miners discover uranium deposit at Idomi, Cross River State
At Idomi in Yakurr LGA [local government area], uranium has been discovered in very large quantity.
(Buzz Reporters Aug. 22, 2017)
Rosatom signs memorandum on nuclear cooperation with Nigeria, including uranium mining
On March 18, 2009, Russia's Rosatom signed a memorandum of understanding on nuclear cooperation with the Nigeria nuclear regulator. Among others, the memorandum foresees a cooperation in the field of uranium prospection and the development of uranium desposits.
(RIA Novosti March 18, 2009)
Uranium deposits discovered in six Nigerian states
Uranium deposits of "great value" have been discovered in six Nigerian states, the News Agency of Nigeria reported on Oct. 17, 2005, but no details were given.
Deposits have been discovered in the states of Cross River, Adamawa, Taraba, Plateau, Bauchi and Kano, citing a report released by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development . The discoveries were made by the Atomic Energy Division of the British Geological Survey .
(Xinhua, Oct. 18, 2005)
Mika, Taraba state
> View deposit info
Nigeria's first uranium mining license issued for Mika project:
The Federal Ministry of Environment has granted a license to Clarisver Solution to commence exploration and mining of Uranium in Mika village of Yorro Local Government Area of Taraba State.
(New Telegraph Aug. 11, 2023)
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The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or exploration in Senegal:
Uramin Inc., Kansala Resources S.A., Mandinga Resources SARL, Haranga Resources Ltd
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In Sierra Leone, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by
African Minerals Limited
Russia, Iran, Libya, and others competed for uranium rights in Sierra Leone: Wikileaks
According to a Wikileaks cable released last week, former US Ambassador to Sierra Leone Ms June Carter Perry reportedly filed a report in February 2009 that Russia, Iran, Libya and others are competing for the mining rights to uranium deposits discovered in Kono.
(Concord Times, Freetown, Sep. 8, 2011)
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In Somalia, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by Kilimanjaro Capital Ltd
Somalia invites Russian firms to develop uranium deposits
Somalia hopes Russian companies will take part in the development of uranium deposits, and oil and natural gas production, the Somali ambassador to Russia said.
Mohamed Handule said prospecting for uranium deposits had been carried out during the Soviet era.
(RIA Novosti June 27, 2008)
Somalia is ready to propose uranium exports to Russia in the first place, according to its ambassador in Russia, Mohamed Mohamud Handule.
(RIA Novosti Aug. 22, 2007)
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In Sudan, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by
Brinkley Mining Plc ,
New Kush Exploration and Mining
Sudan opens door to investment in uranium mining
The Sudanese government decided on Monday (Mar. 12) to open to investment in uranium, said Sudanese Minister for Trade Hatim al-Sir.
(Xinhua Mar. 12, 2018)
Sudan says Russian firms will have priority in uranium extraction contracts
A Sudanese official announced today that Russian companies will given priority in uranium extraction contracts, a day after a major gold concession was awarded to a Russian firm.
(Sudan Tribune July 30, 2015)
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In Togo, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by
AfNat Resources Limited (?),
Agriminco Corp. ,
Power Metal Resources PLC
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Tunisia and Russia sign agreement on nuclear energy, including uranium exploration and mining
The Government of the Republic of Tunisia and the Government of the Russian Federation signed an agreement on peaceful uses of atomic energy on September 26, 2016.
The Agreement is the legal basis for bilateral cooperation between Tunisia and Russia in quite a number of areas of the civil nuclear power, which include assistance in development and improvement of Tunisian nuclear infrastructure in compliance with international recommendations; design and construction of nuclear power and research reactors, as well as desalination plants and particle accelerators; uranium exploration and mining; research of mineral resources of Tunisia for the purposes of the nuclear industry development; nuclear fuel cycle services for nuclear power plants and research reactors; radioactive waste management; production of radioisotopes and their application in industry, medicine and agriculture; nuclear and radiation safety; education, training and retraining of nuclear specialists, etc.
(Rosatom Sep 26, 2016)
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In Uganda, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by
IBI Corporation ,
Canmin Resources (Uganda) Ltd ,
Resgreen Group International Inc. ,
Magnus International Resources, Inc. ,
Signature Metals Ltd
Uganda embarks on national uranium exploration initiative
Uganda has embarked on a national uranium exploration initiative in Buhweju District, marking a significant milestone in the country's energy development.
The national uranium exploration initiative spans several districts. In addition to Buhweju, other regions identified for potential uranium deposits include Arua, Pakwach, Adjumani, Masindi, Mbarara, Hoima, Kitgum, Kabarole, and Sembabule.
Addressing the community's concerns about safety, [Buhweju Deputy Resident District Commissioner] Tumwebaze gave assurance about the safety and benefits of the project. "Our approach to uranium exploration and mining is not only about harnessing a resource but also about ensuring the benefits are shared with the local communities."
(New Vision Nov. 28, 2023)
Uganda signs deal with China on development of nuclear power fueled by domestic uranium deposits
Uganda said on Thursday (Mar. 9) it expects to start generating at least 1000 megawatts (MW) from nuclear power by 2031 as it moves to diversify its sources of electricity and accelerate its energy transition, a key part of its climate change response.
Uganda has uranium deposits and President Yoweri Museveni has said his government was keen to exploit them for potential nuclear energy development.
The east African country has signed a deal with China under which the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) would help Uganda build capacity in the use of atomic energy for peaceful purposes.
(Reuters Mar. 9, 2023)
Uganda signs agreement on nuclear cooperation with Russia
Russia and Uganda have signed an intergovernmental agreement on cooperation in the field of civilian nuclear, the Russian nuclear agency Rosatom announced on Wednesday (Sep. 18).
Russia has been seeking in recent years to strengthen its influence in Africa, notably through its large state-owned companies. Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni's ambition is to use his country's uranium deposits to develop nuclear power.
(Le Figaro Sep. 18, 2019)
Uganda seeks India's assistance to develop its uranium deposits
Uganda is seeking India's knowhow to develop its reserves and open up new vistas of energy cooperation between historically linked countries, a visiting Ugandan minister has said.
Ephraim Kwamuntu, Ugandan minister of water and environment, said his country was keen on mutually beneficial cooperation with India to develop energy resources.
"Uganda is sitting on a pile of uranium, for instance, and Indian knowhow would be very useful in accessing this," Kwamuntu told IANS in an interview. "We have uranium, oil and gas. Here, India with its knowhow and expertise can help," he added.
Uganda has been in talks with India about accessing its uranium reserves and for India training its engineers in this area. Uganda's planning minister had earlier led a business delegation to India that held talks with the Confederation of Indian Industry on developing Uganda's uranium sector, among others.
(Business Standard Apr. 14, 2014)
Uganda invites uranium investors, but precludes uranium export
President Yoweri Museveni has called on investors to undertake uranium mining in the country, as an alternative energy source.
He said the NRM [National Resistance Movement] Government was committed to co-investing with the private sector to optimally utilise the available uranium resources.
Museveni stressed that Government would not tolerate the idea of exporting the mineral, but would work to have it utilised fully to serve wananchi [people] with the energy generated from the mineral.
(New Vision Feb. 1, 2009)
Uganda halts granting of uranium concessions *)
President Yoweri Museveni has ordered the ministry of energy to halt giving out concessions for the exploitation of the newly found uranium deposits in the country. He further directed the energy ministry to establish a nuclear unit in the ministry.
Uranium was first discovered in Uganda in 2004. A recent report by the ministry of energy estimates the uranium-rich areas to be 18,000 km2 in Buganda-Toro region, 12,000 km2 in Karagwe-Ankole area, 5,000 km2 between Lake Albert and Lake Kyoga, 5,000 km2 around Lake Edward, 900 km2 on the Buhwezu plateau and 12,000 km2 in Lake Albert.
According to the energy ministry, only a minority of these sites have been given out as concessions so far to local and foreign companies.
(The New Vision July 18, 2007)
*) However, in an email communication of July 12, 2011, then-Commissioner for Geological Survey and Mines Joshua T. Tuhumwire writes that the President "did not ban exploration of uranium in Uganda but rather said that exploration and mining of uranium in Uganda should be carefully managed". The Statutory Instrument that would have been required for such a ban to become effective has never been issued, to his knowledge. Tuhumwire clarifies that "such purported ban does not exist".
Aghracha
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Moroccan state-owned company continues to market uranium potential of occupied Western Sahara:
The Moroccan state-owned oil company ONHYM continues to promote the uranium potential of occupied Western Sahara. Western Sahara Resource Watch (WSRW) believes that the Romanian geophysical research company Prospectiuni is involved in the ground work.
In a report from November 2011, ONHYM presents further details about the Aghracha prospect -- located in the Awserd region, at 180 km south-east of the city of Dakhla. Geological explorations in the area started in 2008. Further airborne aeromagnetic studies in 2010 highlighted a number of promising uranium deposits.
According to the UN, exploration of natural resources in Western Sahara cannot take place without prior consultation of the Saharawi people.
(WSRW Mar. 21, 2012)
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In Zimbabwe, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by
Afri-Sino Mining Resources Ltd.,
Zimbabwe Mining Development Corporation (ZMDC),
ZimDiv Holdings Ltd
Zimbabwe government conducting uranium exploration
The Government has commenced exploration to determine the extent of uranium deposits in the country for possible commercial exploitation, a Cabinet Minister said yesterday (June 22).
Late last year, the Zimbabwe Mining Development Corporation (ZMDC) acting general manager Farai Karonga was quoted saying the company was searching for partners to explore and develop uranium deposits in the northern region of the country.
Mines and Mining Development Minister Walter Chidhakwa, however, did not reveal who had partnered the ZMDC in the venture since it had been on the hunt for partners. Uranium is used for many processes such as fuelling nuclear power plants, colourants and manufacturing armoured tanks.
(The Herald June 23, 2017)
Zimbabwe said to have signed secret deal to sell uranium to Iran - Zimbabwe Minister denies media report
Zimbabwe's Government has signed an agreement with Iran to sell raw materials for a nuclear weapon in direct breach of international sanctions, a senior government official has told The Times.
The move by Harare and Tehran is expected to provoke international outrage because of the attempt to circumvent punitive Western sanctions imposed on the two regimes.
Gift Chimanikire, the Zimbabwean Deputy Mining Minister, said that a memorandum of understanding had been signed to export uranium to Tehran, despite warnings from Washington of serious "ramifications" if such a deal went ahead.
The minister said that Zimbabwe had struck the deal last year because sanctions imposed by the West - which banned international trade with its state-owned mining companies - had forced the cash-strapped regime to look elsewhere. "Mining is Zimbabwe's ticket," he said.
Both countries are subject to international sanctions: Iran because of its nuclear ambitions; Zimbabwe because of human rights abuses by the ruling Zanu (PF) party.
(The Times Aug. 10, 2013)
Zimbabwe hasn't signed an agreement allowing uranium exports to Iran, Deputy Mining Minister Gift Chimanikire said, after a media report the country entered into a deal to export the material used to build nuclear weapons.
"We have no capacity to handle uranium as a country, and besides we don't even know the quantity of uranium" deposits viable for mining, Chimanikire, a member of the country's opposition party, the Movement for Democratic Change, said in a phone interview today.
(Business Week Aug. 10, 2013)
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Zimbabwe government criticised for 'secretive' mining deals - including Kanyemba uranium project
The government is facing criticism for a number of 'secretive' mining deals across Zimbabwe, which are being made without any consultation with communities and other stakeholders.
This includes an as of yet unconfirmed deal with a Chinese firm to exploit the uranium resources in the Kanyemba area. Zim media reports, quoting different sources, have said that the extraction of uranium is set to begin soon, after the Chinese were granted 'special rights' by the Mines Ministry.
China Uranium Corporation (CUC), already registered in Zimbabwe, is said to be partnering with Zimbabwe's Mining Development Corporation (ZMDC) on the project. It is understood that this same firm was granted a special explorative licence in 2009 and they are ready to begin full scale extraction soon.
Efforts to contact the Mines Ministry for clarification were fruitless on Thursday (May 16). However, Farai Maguwu from the Centre for Natural Resource Governance said there are many "secretive, opaque deals taking place."
(The Zimbabwe Mail May 16, 2013)