- Global Atomic’s Steadfast Stance: Amidst the evolving political landscape in Niger, Global Atomic maintains operations, displaying resilience and adaptability in the face of uncertainty.
- Positive Strides Towards Stability: The appointment of a new civilian-military cabinet, led by Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, reflects strides towards stability, while the Energy, Mines, and Petroleum Minister’s appointment fosters dialogue for the progress of vital projects.
- Strategic Planning for Progress: Global Atomic’s strategic contingency plan underscores its commitment to long-term success, encompass
In a recent and comprehensive quarterly update, Global Atomic’s President and CEO, Stephen Roman, provided valuable insights into the company’s ongoing operations within the dynamic political landscape of Niger. This update, shared on August 10, offers a detailed glimpse into the unfolding situation in the country following the notable events of July 26, when President Mohamed Bazoum found himself under house arrest, orchestrated by the presidential guards.
Amidst the unfolding uncertainties, Roman’s communication is reassuring, highlighting that Niger’s overall atmosphere remains relatively calm while signaling a series of encouraging developments. A significant stride towards stability is evident through the establishment of a new civilian-military coalition cabinet. Notably, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, a former figure in the role of Niger’s Minister of Finance, now assumes the pivotal position of Prime Minister.
A highlight with far-reaching implications is the appointment of Mr. Mahaman Moustapha Barké as the head of the Energy, Mines, and Petroleum Ministry. The noteworthy aspect here is Barké’s prior leadership role within the Niger uranium company, SOPAMIN. This appointment carries substantial importance for Global Atomic’s subsidiary, SOMIDA (Société Minière de Dasa SA), as it lays the groundwork for constructive dialogues between SOMIDA’s representatives and the Mines Ministry. This engagement holds the key to advancing the significant Dasa Project.
In an encouraging economic stride, the reopening of land borders signifies a positive shift. This step is poised to facilitate the restoration of the flow of goods and services, anticipated to recommence in due course. The involvement of the Head of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in diplomatic discussions offers a beacon of hope for addressing issues within Niger. Importantly, the potential application of military force is distinctly positioned as a last resort, underscoring the commitment to peaceful solutions.
Global Atomic’s subsidiary, SOMIDA, emerges as a resilient entity, managing to sustain its operations within Niger’s capital, Niamey, as well as at the Dasa mine site. Minor disruptions, attributable to external shipment delays, have not hindered the overall operations significantly. Demonstrating a prudent approach, the company has strategically crafted a contingency plan to navigate the complex political terrain. This plan includes a contemplation of postponing the commissioning of the processing plant by a window of 6 to 12 months. Additionally, a measured decision to temporarily delay the further development of underground mine workings, which have already exceeded schedule expectations, aligns with the goal of ensuring ore stockpiles are well-established on the surface prior to mill commissioning.
Of paramount importance, the project timeline for the Dasa project retains its focus. The initiation of underground development in November 2022 stands as a milestone with a clear trajectory. The ultimate objective, producing yellowcake for utilities, remains on track for a timely delivery by early 2025.
In conclusion, the most recent quarterly update from Global Atomic resonates as a testament to the company’s mettle and strategic acumen amidst the intricate political dynamics of Niger. The update encapsulates a series of promising developments, notable appointments, and tactically devised plans, all of which reflect Global Atomic’s unwavering commitment to maintaining operational resilience and realizing key project objectives amidst the intricate challenges posed by the prevailing circumstances.
