http://www.wise-uranium.org/upafr.html
HOME WISE Uranium Project > Mining & Milling > Issues >
New Uranium Mining Projects - Africa
(last updated 30 Jul 2008)
Contents:
* Algeria · Botswana · Burkina Faso · Cameroon · Central African
Republic · Chad · Congo, DR · Egypt · Gabon · Gambia · Guinea · Libya ·
Madagascar · Malawi · Mali · Mauritania · Morocco · Mozambique · Namibia
(extra page) · Niger · Nigeria · Senegal · Somalia · South Africa (extra
page) · Sudan · Tanzania · Togo · Uganda · Zambia · Zimbabwe
Algeria flag
In Algeria, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by
Landmark Minerals Inc. external link
General
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 external
link holds a symposium on the uranium resources in the country and their
valorization.
> View symposium announcement: Resources and the Valorization of Uranium
> in Algeria external link
Botswana flag
In Botswana, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by
Uramin Inc., Bannerman Resources Limited external link, Mount Burgess Mining
NL external link, African Energy Resources (Guernsey) Ltd external link,
A-Cap Resources Ltd external link, Aquentium, Inc. external link, Mootah
Energetic Pty. Ltd., Impact Minerals Ltd external link
Burkina Faso flag
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or
exploration in Burkina Faso: Centram Exploration Ltd. external link,
Crossland Uranium Mines Ltd external link, Southern Cross Exploration NL
external link
Cameroon flag
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or
exploration in Cameroon: NU Energy Corporation, Uranex SA external link,
Comdek Ltd external link
Central African Republic flag
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or
exploration in Central African Republic: Uramin Inc.
Bakouma Project
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.
Chad flag
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or
exploration in Chad: Uramin Inc., Brinkley Mining Plc external link
Congo, Democratic Republic of the flag
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or
exploration in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: Brinkley Mining Plc
external link, Western Uranium Pty. Ltd. external link, Atlantis Sprl
(Belgium), Elemental Minerals Ltd external link
General
Brinkley Mining PLC signs contract for uranium exploitation venture in DR
Congo On July 9, 2007, Brinkley Mining PLC external link 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)
Shinkolobwe
> See more issues
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
external link 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)
Egypt flag
General
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)
Gabon flag
In Gabon, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by Motapa
Diamonds Inc. external link, Pitchstone Exploration Ltd. external link,
Cameco Corp.
General
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)
Gambia flag
General
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)
Guinea flag
In Guinea, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by
Murchison United NL external link, Toro Energy Ltd., Contico
Libya flag
In Libya, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by Areva
General
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)
Madagascar flag
In Madagascar, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by
Cline Mining Corp., Uranium Corporation of Madagascar SARL (URAMAD), Pan
African Mining Corp. external link, PAM Atomique Sarl external link, UMC
Energy plc. external link, Pencari Mining Corporation external link, Minvest
Madagascar SA, Haddington Resources Ltd external link, Red Island Resources,
Uranium Star Corp. external link, Malagasy Minerals Ltd external link
Malawi flag
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or
exploration in Malawi: Paladin Resources Ltd, Balmain Resources Pty Ltd, Red
Rock Resources PLC external link, Globe Uranium Ltd external link, African
Energy Resources (Guernsey) Ltd external link, Mantra Resources Ltd, Oropa
Ltd external link, Resource Star Ltd external link, Eastbourne Exploration
Pty Ltd external link, Lisungwe plc external link
Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR) external link and Citizens
for Justice Malawi (CFJ) external link oppose the development of uranium
mines in Malawi.
Kayelekera deposit
> View deposit info
Labour dispute at Kayelekera mining site: Junior rank workers Kayerekera
Uranium mining site in Karonga have threatened to down tools over low perks.
"We are demanding increased pay and good working conditions," said one of
the workers who opted for anonymity. Reports indicate that the junior
workers, mostly drivers, welders, builders, messengers, among others, had a
meeting with management over the issue but nothing positive came out.
Another meeting was expected this week to try and sort out the issue. (Nyasa
Times June 6, 2008)
Commissioning of Malawi's Kayelekera uranium project should start in
December 2008, says Paladin Energy Managing Director John Borshoff.
Production ramp-up is scheduled for early next 2009.
Borshoff says the road has been cleared for Paladin to go ahead with the
project, following last year's near court battle to halt mine development,
as several non-governmental organisations voiced their concerns over
uranium-mining in the Karonga region. Borshoff says the company has resolved
all outstanding social issues in an amicable manner, enabling the Kayelekera
project to proceed unhindered. The terms of the settlement include the
establishment of a civil society organisation, which will form part of a
monitoring team, which will ensure Paladin meets its environmental and
health obligations. (Nyasa Times Feb. 28, 2008)
Government and Paladin Africa Limited have come up with an environmental
bond that will see the company save funds to cater for any environmental
damage the extraction of the mineral will cause. Former Energy and Mines
Minister Henry Chimunthu Banda said this on Feb. 6, 2008, when members of
the Parliamentary Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources toured the
Kayelekera Uranium Mine in Karonga. Chimunthu Banda, who was transferred to
the Ministry of Transport, Public Works and Housing in Feb. 8's cabinet
reshuffle, said Paladin will open an account with one of local banks with an
amount that will be quantified yearly and expected to increase depending on
the environmental damage that will take place. "The idea is that at any time
the mine closes, there has to be money to address environmental issues.
Regarding the welfare of people, it is a requirement that at the time of
entry into the mine, every worker has to undergo medical check up and
records have to be kept and verifi ed by government." (Malawi Nation Feb.
11, 2008)
One of the critical logistical problems facing the Kayelekera mining project
is delay in construction of the highly politicised Karonga-Chitipa road that
connects the project's site to Karonga, Deputy Minister of Irrigation and
Water Development Frank Mwenefumbo said. He said the road project was moving
at snail's pace resulting in the delay in commencement of the mining at
Kayelekera. (The Daily Times Jan. 18, 2008)
Malawi Finance Minister Goodall Gondwe said the southern African nation is
expected to earn more than a billion dollars over the next decade from
uranium mining, which kicks off next year. "The IMF and our treasury
officials say, at current prices, uranium could generate output for a decade
worth about $1.6 billion," Gondwe told Reuters. "This is the overall amount
the Malawi government is estimated to make as revenue from its 15 percent
stake in the uranium project." Gondwe said that uranium is also expected to
raise the country's gross domestic product (GDP) by 10 percent and increase
exports by 25 percent over the ten years. Malawi's GDP is about $2 billion.
(Reuters 9 Jan 2008)
The Malawi Ministry of Energy and Mining has refuted media reports that the
out-of-court settlement that some Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs)
agreed with Malawi government and Paladin Africa Limited over the uranium
mining project at Kayerekera in Karonga district were a result of death
threats received by members of the involved NGO's. (Nyasa Times Dec. 3,
2007)
On Nov. 15, 2007, Paladin announced "that all six Malawian Civil Society
Organisations that commenced legal proceedings against Paladin Africa Ltd
and the Government of Malawi have now settled their action on a positive and
amicable basis".
However, Malawian NGOs question the legitimacy of the settlement of the
court case. NGOs coalition members unhappy with the settlement agreement
have indicated they will "continue with legal action to protect the Malawian
people's constitutional rights, unless and until the company is willing to
enter negotiations to change its proposal in a way that addresses the flaws,
gaps and problems in the project that pose serious public health and
environmental risks".
> View MPI release Nov. 19, 2007 external link
Civil society groups in Malawi have asked Paladin (Africa) to halt mining
operations at Keyelekera in Karonga until legal challenges initiated by the
non-governmental organizations on the mining are concluded. Undule
Mwakasungura, executive director of Centre for Human Rights and
Rehabilitation said on Oct. 22, 2007, that Malawi does not have regulatory
and controlling legislation for the mining of uranium. He said Malawi needed
the legislation to protect the heritage of the people, to protect the
environment and to ensure that regulation to compensate mineworkers and
others who would suffer illness or injury because of uranium mining.
He said the NGOs want Paladin to ensure that royalties to Karonga be based
at 4.5 percent of the gross annual revenue and an inclusive independent
monitoring body consisting of MPs, traditional leaders, NGOs, government,
Paladin and experts be constituted.
Mwakasungura also said the civil society wants an environmental bond to
cater for environmental damages after closure of the mine and construction
of a tailings dam to fill in tailings below the water table. (The Daily
Times Oct. 25, 2007)
Civil society organisations, represented by Mr Undule Mwakasungula,
executive director of Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR) and
Reinford Mwangonde of Citizens for Justice (CFJ) recently met the IAEA team
in Malawi; they have issued a media statement to refute the reports that
also indicated that IAEA endorsed the procedures followed by Malawi
government to grant Australian company, Paladin Resources, a mining licence.
A statement made available to Nyasa Times, endorsed and issued by CHRR, CFJ,
Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace - Mzuzu, Church & Society of
Livingstonia Synod, Foundation for Community Support Services - FOCUS and
Uraha Foundation Malawi - UFM, says the concerned civil society organisation
met IAEA to express their concerns at the manner in which government granted
a Mining Licence and approved the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
carried out by Paladin, without the regulatory and controlling legislation
and also without an all inclusive process involving stakeholders.
"In the strongest terms possible Mr. Peter Waggitt, a member of the IAEA
team, contrary to the claims made by Paladin Africa and the government,
denied that the IAEA had approved the EIA which had been prepared by Paladin
Africa, and that the claim that the EIA had been approved by the IAEA, as
reported by the media, in Malawi, Australia and elsewhere, was a fallacy and
misleading," read a media statement.
The media statement says the IAEA clearly stated at the meeting that, in the
absence of a national legal regulatory framework, which the government has
not introduced: "Malawi is not ready to license or permit the mining of
Uranium in Malawi". On whether Malawi was ready to mine Uranium, the
statement quotes Waggitt: "It is very necessary that all regulatory and
legal frameworks has to be put in place before Uranium mining can commence,
as these are radioactive materials whose mining and movement have to be
controlled." (Nyasa Times July 25, 2007)
Following a site visit by a three-member team, the International Atomic
Energy Agency (IAEA) sanctioned mining of uranium at Kayelekera in Karonga.
The mission took place under a technical cooperation agreement. "The IAEA
team applauded government in the manner it licensed Paladin Africa to mine
Uranium, noting that the procedures were exhausted. The team also noted that
measures put in place to safeguard lives of communities around Kayerekera
mine conform to worldwide benchmarks." (The Daily Times July 19, 2007)
On May 28, 2007, Paladin Resources Ltd. announced that a group of
non-government organisations (NGOs) had launched legal action against the
company's subsidiary Paladin (Africa) Ltd and the government of Malawi.
On April 9, 2007, Paladin Resources Ltd. announced that the Minister of
Energy, Mines and Natural Resources of the Republic of Malawi has granted
its wholly owned subsidiary Paladin Africa Ltd a Mining Licence for the
Kayelekera Uranium Project. With environmental approval already received,
this now clears the way for the construction processes to commence.
Mining Licence ML 0152 covers an area of 55.5km2 and has been granted for a
term of 15 years renewable for further 10 year periods. The Kayelekera
Uranium Project is scheduled to commission in September 2008 and reach full
production during the 2nd quarter of 2009. Annual production will be 3.3
Mlbs U3O8 [1269 t U].
Several NGOs seek court injunction to stop Paladin Africa from mining
uranium at Kayelekera in Karonga unless the project comes out clear on its
negative impact on people. One of the organisations, the Catholic Commission
for Justice and Peace external link (CCJP), on Wednesday said the NGOs have
grouped to stop the implementation of the project because its Environmental
Impact Assessment (EIA) was not done procedurally. "There are shortfalls
highlighted in the environmental assessment report to which government has
not responded, for instance, issues of protecting citizen�s rights
and health." The other organisations are the Centre for Human Rights and
Rehabilitation external link (CHRR), Focus on Karonga, Citizens for Justice
and the Institute for Policy Interaction (IPI). (Malawi Nation Apr. 5, 2007)
On April 2, 2007, Paladin Resources Ltd. announced that the Kayelekera
Uranium Project in Malawi has received its Notice for Environmental Approval
to proceed with the Project. The environmental certificate which has been
issued to Paladin (Africa) Ltd, a 100% subsidiary of Paladin, is subject to
conditions of reporting, environmental management, training and compliance
with Development Agreement undertakings. The EIA approval is a pre requisite
for a Mining Licence for the project. (Paladin Apr. 2, 2007)
Paladin Resources' Kayelekera Uranium Project in Malawi, Africa would not be
approved in Australia, conclude independent reviewers external link (MPI
Mar. 1, 2007)
On Feb. 23, 2007, Paladin announced that through its subsidiary Paladin
(Africa) Ltd it has reached agreement with the Government of Malawi to enter
into a Development Agreement for the Kayelekera Uranium Project. Paladin
moreover announced that after review of the Bankable Feasibility Study the
Board has resolved to proceed with the development.
The Malawi Government is expected to decide on whether to allow Paladin
Africa to start mining uranium at Kayelekera before end of February 2007.
(The Nation Jan. 19, 2007)
Five Non-Governmental Organisations have issued a statement that opposes the
exploration of uranium at Kayerekela because of the long-time side effects
to the people and environment. The organisations have called on government
to exercise caution in relation to uranium, as its mining remains a
contaminating and controversial industry. "Uranium mining threatens Malawi's
natural heritage including treasures such as Sere Stream, Rukuru River and
Lake Malawi. This is an ecological disaster in waiting," said the
organisations in a joint statement. The NGOs are Centre for Human Rights and
Rehabilitation, Citizens for Justice, Foundation for Community Support
Services, Karonga Development Trust and Uraha Foundation. Key concerns
raised by the organisations include detrimental impacts on the health of
workers and nearby communities, production of large volumes of radioactive
mine wastes, environmental damage and water contamination and a great chance
of nuclear accidents due to tailings. ( Malawi Daily Times Nov. 14, 2006)
On Oct. 5, 2006, the Draft EIA was submitted to the Malawian Department of
Environmental Affairs external link. Interested parties were invited to
submit comments within 10 weeks.
> Download Kayelekera Uranium Project, Draft Environmental Impact
> Assessment, September 2006 external link (Knight Piésold)
On Aug. 30, 2006, Malawian rights groups petitioned the government against a
plan to grant a 16-year tax break to an Australian firm set to mine uranium,
saying the project could be environmentally hazardous. "A 16-year tax
exemption is deplorable and in bad taste when the mining life span is ten
years," Undule Mwakasungura, a spokesman for a coalition of five rights
groups, said, after sending the petition to the government. (Australian Aug.
30, 2006)
Knight Piésold external link, GRD Minproc external link and Paladin
Resources / Paladin Africa personnel will be hosting three public
consultation meetings regarding the Environmental Impact Assessment process
for the proposed Kayelekera Uranium Project (Kayelekera Village: June 27,
2006, Karonga Town: June 28, 2006, Lilongwe: June 30, 2006). The objectives
of the meetings "will be to disseminate information on the project, engage
public regarding the project benefits and impacts, resolve where possible
any questions raised by public, and document concerns raised for inclusion
in the Environmental Impact Assessment report".
The Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR) requests the Malawi
Ministry for Mines, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs to address
the environmental concerns regarding the Kayelekera uranium project with
utmost caution. According to CHRR, key stakeholders in Karonga have not been
informed and consulted yet. (The Nation, Malawi, Nov. 1, 2005; CHRR release
Nov. 4, 2005)
Paladin Resources Limited says there are high prospects that Malawi would
venture into full throttle-mining of uranium, with feasibility studies
starting by May 2005. John Borshoff, managing director for Paladin Resources
Limited, a company currently working on preparations for an anticipated
Kayelekera uranium mine in Karonga, said in an interview prospects for the
project were good. He said after the feasibility study, full time mining
would start by 2008. (The Nation, Malawi, Dec. 20, 2004)
Pre-development work is reported to have begun on a new uranium mine at
Kayelekera in the north of the country. Australia-based Paladin Resources
expects to start production at the mine, reported to contain at least 11,600
t of 'high-grade' deposits, in 2003. [UI News Briefing 00.32, August 9,
2000]
Paladin Resources has secured an 80% interest in the Kayelekera uranium
deposit in Malawi. The sandstone deposit was discovered and proved up by
CEGB (UK). It has 11,700 tonnes U3O8 in 0.187% ore with in situ leach
potential. Another Perth company, Balmain Resources P/L, holds title and
Paladin is spending $500,0000 over three years to farm-in to the joint
venture. [UIC Weekly News Summary 27 March 1998]
Mali flag
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or
exploration in Mali: Murchison United NL external link, Northern Canadian
Uranium Inc. external link, Delta Exploration Inc. external link, Rockgate
Capital Corp. external link, Oklo Uranium Ltd external link
Mauritania flag
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or
exploration in Mauritania: Murchison United NL external link, Alba Mineral
Resources PLC external link, Mauritania Ventures Ltd external link, Shield
Mining Ltd external link, Aura Energy Ltd external link, GCM Resources Plc.
external link
Morocco flag
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or
exploration in Morocco: Toro Energy Ltd external link
General
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 external link (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)
Mozambique flag
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or
exploration in Mozambique: Omegacorp Ltd., Uramin Inc., Kenmare Resources
Plc. external link, Helio Resource Corp. external link, African Eagle
Resources PLC external link, Mavuzi Resources Ltd external link, Teal
Exploration & Mining Inc external link, Red Rock Resources PLC external link
Namibia flag
> See extra page
Niger flag
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or
exploration in Niger: Bayswater Uranium Corporation external link (planned),
Areva NC, Greencastle Resources Ltd. external link (planned), Murchison
United NL external link (planned), Southampton Ventures Inc. external link,
North Atlantic Resources Ltd. external link, Selier Energy Niger SARL
external link, Anglo-Canadian Uranium Corp. external link (planned), China
National Uranium Corporation (CNUC), Société des Mines d'Azelik (SOMINA),
Global Uranium Corporation (Ont.) external link, Homeland Uranium Inc.
external link, Trendfield Holdings SA external link, Indo Energy Ltd (UK),
NGM Resources Ltd external link, Semafo Inc. external link, Orezone
Resources Inc. external link, Niger Resources Inc. external link, Brighton
Energy Ltd external link, Delta Exploration Inc. external link, COJ
Commodity Investments Ltd (UK), Agadez Ltd (UK), Taurian Resources Pvt Ltd.
external link, Rio Tinto, ATI Petroleum external link , Niger Uranium
Limited, Niger Uranium SA, Nordic Diamonds Ltd. external link, Dhanani
Holding Niger, La Société Salamat Mining Niger, Island Arc Exploration Corp.
external link (application), GoviEX Niger Holdings Ltd. external link,
Artemis Resources Ltd external link, Oklo Uranium Ltd external link, Aura
Energy Ltd external link, Richmond Energy Corp. external link (planned)
General
Chinese uranium mining interests to revamp Niger's power supply Niger
government has sealed a deal with China to upgrade the country's power
supplies. Niger which sources most of its power from Nigeria had several
black outs since January due to systems collapse in Nigeria. In the deal
aimed at improving Niger's power supplies, China - which is currently the
main investor in uranium mining in the country - will transfer electrical
power units to Niger. Niger's head of power plant in capital Niamey Mr
Hamidu Mamudu, said the new equipment would help increase production of
electric power by about 30% for the Niamey region saying equipment will also
increase power output between 50 and 60 megawatts. (afrol News, 7 July,
2008)
Niger to award 100 exploration permits to ramp up uranium industry Niger
Energy and Mines Minister Mamadou Abdulahi said that the country will award
100 mining exploration permits over the next two years. State-controlled
French utility Areva has enjoyed a monopoly on production of uranium in
Niger for some 40 years. In recent years, the government has issued a slew
of new exploration licences in an effort to diversify the uranium sector.
(Resource Investor Jan 10, 2008)
Indian company granted uranium exploration and mining permit in Niger
Taurian Resources Pvt Ltd. external link has recently won a contract which
gives it exclusive rights over 3,000 sq. km. of the Sahara Desert known to
be rich in deposits of uranium. According to the estimates of the Managing
Director of the company, Sachin Bajla, the area in the Arlit region is
likely to hold at least 30,000 tonnes of uranium. This is the first time any
Indian has won a contract for uranium exploration and mining anywhere in the
world.
Niger is not a member of the Nuclear Suppliers Group, the 45-member nation
that controls all nuclear-related commerce, and hence it should be easy for
India to access the uranium once the mines become operational - this will
take several years. (The Hindu Aug. 19, 2007)
Chinese uranium prospector captured in Niger by Tuareg rebels A Chinese
employee of a mining company was captured on July 6, 2007, by Tuaregs of the
rebel Movement of Niger People for Justice (MNJ) in the Ingall region 100
kilometres south of Agadez, the movement said. According to the Niger
government, the Chinese national worked with a team prospecting for uranium.
(The News July 7, 2007) The Chinese company has suspended its activities in
the country. The kidnapped employee was released on July 10, 2007. (Reuters
July 10, 2007)
Niger to triple uranium production in the next few years Niger communication
minister and government spokesman Mohamed Ben Omar has said his country
plans to raise its annual uranium production from 3,500 to 10,500 tonnes a
year in the next few years. Speaking at a news conference, Omar said French
group Areva will remain Niger's strategic partner in uranium exploitation.
Reacting to statements by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) on the
health and environmental consequences of uranium exploitation in northern
Niger, he said Areva plans to invest about 540 billion francs CFA [US$ 1.1
billion] in the well-being of people living in the affected area. (Africast
May 3, 2007)
Imouraren project
On Jan. 13, 2008, Areva announced it has received government agreement to
launch mining at the Imouraren deposit and to extend its exploration scope.
With a planned investment of over 1 billion euros (approximately 650 billion
FCFA), the Imouraren site will constitute the biggest industrial mining
project ever under consideration in Niger, placing it at the second world
rank with almost 5,000 tons of uranium produced annually.
Heavily-armed men attacked a camp of uranium prospectors in northern Niger
early on Apr. 20, 2007, killing a security guard and wounding three other
people, industry sources said. Some 20-30 men demanding a better deal for
local Tuareg people raided the camp operated by the French nuclear energy
group Areva housing around 250 people and made off with six vehicles and a
large number of mobile phones. The raid took place at Imouraren, 85
kilometres south of the main uranium-producing centre of Arlit, the sources
said. The gunmen said they belonged to a group called the Niger Movement for
Justice, which emerged in February 2007. They called for the proper
implementation of a 1995 accord which ended a Tuareg rebellion by promising
the tribesmen priority in jobs with local mining companies. (AFP Apr. 20,
2007)
Areva may begin producing 4,000 tonnes of uranium a year starting in 2011
from a deposit located in Imouraren, said Mohamed Abdoulahi, Minister of
Mines and Energy. The Imouraren deposit contains 146,000 tonnes, one of the
world's biggest. Areva's project will cost as much as 500 million euros,
said Oumarou Massalbi, director of mines at the ministry. (The Standard Mar.
8, 2007)
Azelik deposit (Teguidda deposit), Agadez region
> View deposit info
Sinohydro Corp. external link, China's leading hydraulic construction
contractor announced it has secured a 140 million U.S. dollar uranium mine
construction deal in Niger with China Nuclear International Uranium Corp.
(SinoUranium). The contract calls for building a uranium mine with annual
output of 600,000 tons, a coal-fired power plant and a hydrometallurgy plant
in the African country, Sinohydro said in a statement on its website. The
construction will last 900 days. (People's Daily Online Apr. 8, 2008)
On Nov. 9, 2007, the government of Niger granted Société des Mines d'Azelik
(SOMINA) a mining license for the Azelik uranium deposit. SOMINA was formed
on June 5, 2007, by the state of Niger and its Chinese partners. On June 19,
2007, the company applied for a mining license for the Azelik uranium
deposit. The application was accompanied by an environmental impact study
which was approved in July 2007, and a technical-economical feasibility
study. The license was granted, after the latter study had been modified, as
requested by the authorities. (Tamtaminfo Nov. 9, 2007)
CNNC plans the first production from the Teguidda deposit for the beginning
of 2010. (Trendfield, July 24, 2006)
Nigeria flag
General
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 external link. The discoveries were made by the Atomic Energy
Division of the British Geological Survey external link. (Xinhua, Oct. 18,
2005)
Senegal flag
The following companies are performing uranium prospection and/or
exploration in Senegal: Uramin Inc.
Somalia flag
General
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 offers export of uranium to Russia 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)
South Africa flag
> View extra page
Sudan flag
In Sudan, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by Brinkley
Mining Plc external link
Tanzania flag
In Tanzania, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by Deep
Yellow Ltd, Goldstream Mining NL, Uranex NL, Omegacorp Ltd, Mantra Resources
Ltd, Uranium Resources plc external link, Western Metals Ltd external link,
Sabre Resources Ltd external link, Uranium Hunter Corporation external link,
Trimark Explorations Ltd., Gambaro Resources, Douglas Lake Minerals Inc.
external link, Canaco Resources Inc. external link, Sub-Sahara Resources NL
external link, Tanganyika Uranium Corp. external link, Troll Mining Ltd,
African Eagle Resources PLC external link, Globe Uranium Ltd external link,
Atomic Minerals Ltd external link, Universal Power Corp. external link,
International Gold Mining Limited external link, VIPR Industries Inc.
external link
Togo flag
In Togo, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by Lithic
Metals and Energy Ltd external link
Uganda flag
In Uganda, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by IBI
Corporation external link, Canmin Resources (Uganda) Ltd external link,
Uranium Hunter Corporation external link
General
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)
Zambia flag
In Zambia, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by AIM
Resources Ltd external link, Albidon Ltd external link, Energy Ventures
Limited external link, Equinox Minerals Limited, Omegacorp Ltd, Zambezi
Resources Ltd external link, African Energy Resources Ltd external link,
Aldershot Resources Ltd., Lithic Metals and Energy Ltd external link,
African Eagle Resources PLC external link, Kiwara Resources Ltd external
link, Globe Uranium Ltd external link
General
Zambia to develop policy prior to issuing uranium mining licenses Zambia has
not given out any license for the mining of uranium because it is a
dangerous mineral, the country's mines minister has said. Minister Kalombo
Mwansa was responding to chief Munyumbwe's presentation to the House of
Chiefs, The Post reported on May 31, 2006. The chief of Gwembe district told
the house that his chiefdom has a lot of uranium deposits but that the
government is not interested in requesting foreign investors to mine it. But
the minister said Zambia is consulting the UN International Atomic Energy
Agency (IAEA) so that a policy could be framed and approved before any
uranium mining could be done in the southern African country. (Angola Press
May 31, 2006)
> See also: Regulatory Issues - Zambia
Njame deposit (Chirundu JV)
On May 9, 2008, Albidon Ltd and African Energy Resources Ltd announced the
completion of the Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) on the Chirundu Uranium JV
project. The PFS demonstrates that commercially viable mining is possible
under the projected price and cost scenarios [however: the current uranium
spot price of US$ 63/lb U3O8 is lower than the projected uranium price...].
Mining would employ open pit mining and acid heap leaching.
On Sep. 6, 2007, joint venture partners Albidon Ltd external link and
African Energy Resources Ltd external link announced the beginning of a
pre-feasibility study for the Njame North deposit and Gwabe prospect. Base
case for the Study is 1.4 Mlb U3O8 [538 t U] annual production over an
initial five year mine plan using a uranium price of US$65/lb U3O8.
Kariba project
The government will soon open a uranium mine in Siavonga - Southern
Province, according to Mines Minister, Kalombo Mwansa. (Zambia National
Broadcasting Cooperation June 26, 2007)
Omega Corporation has expressed interest in opening up a uranium mine in
Siavonga with an investment of 60 million U.S. dollars. According to
managing director Mattew Yates, uranium deposits have so far been detected
in Muntanga and Dibwii areas of Siavonga. He said the exploration project
started in June 2006 and is expected to end in July 2007. Project manager
David Dodd said Omega intends to start construct the uranium mine between
July 2007 and October 2008 when the government issues a mining operating
license which the company has already applied for. Production of uranium
from the mine is expected to start in October 2008 and end in 2015 after
operating for a period of seven years. (People's Daily Online Oct. 19, 2006)
Lumwana copper project
On Apr. 29, 2008, Equinox announced a positive Feasibility Study for uranium
extraction at its Lumwana copper mine project. Equinox plans to selectively
mine 1 Mt per year of uranium ore within the much larger copper mining
operation. Approx. 2 Mlb U3O8 (769 t U) per year are to be recovered from
the ore.
With a uranium spot price in excess of $US50 per pound, Equinox Minerals Ltd
is re-evaluating the potential for a significant uranium by-product from its
Lumwana copper mine project in Zambia. The deposit contains 22 million
pounds of U3O8 (8462 t U).
Equinox is looking to produce about 150,000 tonnes of copper annually from
the Lumwana project when it comes online in 2008. The project has a mine
life of 37 years. (Miningnews Net, Sep. 8, 2006)
On Dec. 22, 2003, Equinox Resources announced that it was granted a Large
Scale Mining lease over its Lumwana copper project. Equinox, however, has
abandoned the plan to recover uranium as a by-product:
"Discrete uranium zones have been defined within the copper orebodies.
These uranium zones are discrete high-grade segregations and are not
disseminated throughout the copper deposits. These zones will be separately
excavated, stockpiled and returned to the Malundwe pit following completion
of mining as it is uneconomic to recover the uranium." (Equinox Annual
Report 2003)
Zimbabwe flag
In Zimbabwe, uranium prospection and exploration is being performed by
Omegacorp Ltd
HOME WISE Uranium Project > Mining & Milling > Issues >
------------------------------------
--------------------------
Want to discuss this topic? Head on over to our discussion list, [EMAIL
PROTECTED]
--------------------------
Brooks Isoldi, editor
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
http://www.intellnet.org
Post message: [email protected]
Subscribe: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Unsubscribe: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
*** FAIR USE NOTICE. This message contains copyrighted material whose use has
not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. OSINT, as a part of
The Intelligence Network, is making it available without profit to OSINT
YahooGroups members who have expressed a prior interest in receiving the
included information in their efforts to advance the understanding of
intelligence and law enforcement organizations, their activities, methods,
techniques, human rights, civil liberties, social justice and other
intelligence related issues, for non-profit research and educational purposes
only. We believe that this constitutes a 'fair use' of the copyrighted material
as provided for in section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Law. If you wish to use
this copyrighted material for purposes of your own that go beyond 'fair use,'
you must obtain permission from the copyright owner.
For more information go to:
http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/17/107.shtmlYahoo! Groups Links
<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/osint/
<*> Your email settings:
Individual Email | Traditional
<*> To change settings online go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/osint/join
(Yahoo! ID required)
<*> To change settings via email:
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
