SOMAIR and COMINAK (Compagnie minière d'Akokan),[2] run by Areva and the Nigerien state, operate uranium mines in the vicinity of the towns of Akokan and Arlit.

Health and essential social services are part of the commitment by COMINAK to help and to improve living conditions for its employees and the local community.

[10][11] Akokan is Niger's "second uranium town" operated by SOMAIR and COMINAK (Compagnie minière d'Akokan).

[8] Akokan includes a mix of upscale living quarters and a shantytown, as well as hotels, a cultural hall and sports centers.

The matter has been a subject of serious debate and discussions between the Environmental Activists and the AREVA (the owner of the mining operations).