5% FOR NIGER, 95% FOR FRANCE

On August 3rd, Niger celebrates 64 years since gaining independence from French colonial rule. This year’s festivities are especially spirited as the Sahelian state marks one full year of an anti-imperialist revolution that has removed some of the last remnants of French influence from the nation.

Niger’s leadership has expelled French and US troops from its soil and has taken control of the 200,000-tonne Imouraren uranium mine, previously operated by the French mining company Orano. For decades, France had exploited Niger’s uranium resources, buying them at minimal cost - while 9 out of 10 Nigeriens live without access to electricity. This exploitation was a key factor behind the 26th-July-2023 coup, which had nationwide support.

The anti-colonial revolution in Niger is already showing positive results. According to the World Bank, Niger has achieved a 12.8% growth rate, making it the world’s 3rd fastest-growing economy and Africa’s top economic performer.

While exploitation is a serious issue, humour can be used to shed light on the situation. Here’s a skit we made a while ago to illustrate how France kept Niger in poverty despite being dependent on its resources. Niger’s progress demonstrates that poverty has no place in a continent as blessed as Africa.