Niger reclaims its gold: the country’s main mine is nationalised

The President of Niger, Abdourahamane Tiani, has ordered the nationalization of the Société des Mines du Liptako (SML SA), the country’s sole industrial gold producer, due to serious contractual violations.

The company, largely controlled by the Australian McKinel Resources, failed to invest the promised 10 million dollars, accumulated tax debts, failed to pay salaries, and carried out mass layoffs.

The Nigerien state is taking control of this strategic sector, continuing the trend of nationalizing uranium mines, which began in 2024. This decision reflects the intention to return full control of the country’s resources to the people of Niger.

In 2023, the Samira Hill mine (managed by SML SA) produced only 180 kg of gold, far below expected levels. Meanwhile, artisanal cooperatives in Niger continue to produce around 2 tons of gold annually.