Niger has the world third largest uranium deposit, a mineral which is used to produced nuclear power but the tiny west African state still remains one of the poorest nations with over 70% of its population live below $1US a day.

According to the AFP news agency, a French nuclear energy company Areva has just signed millions of dollar contract with the Nigerian authorities to launch mining at the mammoth Imouraren deposit, north of the country, which will be the company’s largest uranium production site.

President Sarkozy arrived in Niamey from Congo on his two days visit to Africa which political pundits described as an African tour‘’ to promote French interest.’’ The President is expected to hold talks during his short visit with Areva CEO Anne Lauvergeon, civil society groups, government officials including Niger president Mamadou Tandja in a bid to promote transparency in mining as according to an official of the French entourage "even if France has economic interests in Niger, these also benefit the country and its people."

Toureg rebels declared war against the government for a fair share of the country’s uranium deposit. The rebel group is specialized in hostage taken and demanding of ransom.

President Sasrkozy has been advocating for a “new era’’ with the continent but observers said “he must transform words into action.’’