Mineral Resources Minister Mosebenzi Zwane (MP) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding MoU) with the Government of the Republic of Niger, represented by its Minister of Mines, Mr Hassane Baraze Moussa. The MoU, which was signed on the side-lines of the Investing in African Mining Indaba currently underway in Cape Town, is on cooperation in the fields of geology and mining focus across the whole value chain, from exploration through to beneficiation.

“The signing of this MoU is significant, as it kickstarts a process of greater collaboration between our two countries as we seek to advance our economies, and in the broader interests of the continent at large.” Minister Zwane said. “We have over the past year undertaken working visits across the continent to strengthen bilateral relations, and in all instances issues including investment, R&D, infrastructure, skills development have been paramount,” the Minister added.

Technical teams from the two countries will meet during the Indaba to map a way forward on the implementation of the MoU. Minister Hassane Baraze Moussa appreciated the commitment to implementation and the significance of the effort as part of breaking Niger’s dependence on uranium and diversifying the economy.