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Niger’s HIV/AIDS Prevention Strategies and Government Initiatives

Niger's HIV/AIDSNiger is a landlocked country in West Africa that boasts a youthful demographic, with 58% of its population aged less than 18. Compared to many other sub-Saharan African countries, Niger has made notable strides in addressing its disease burden indicators. Presently, Niger’s HIV/AIDS prevalence rate stands below 1%, with 0.2% among adults aged 15 to 49.

According to reports by Global Fund, the rise in new cases has significantly fallen by three-quarters since 2002. This progress can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of the government and international nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), which have played pivotal roles in advancing Niger’s fight against HIV/AIDS over the years.

Efforts by Niger Government

In 2011, the Niger government committed to preventing mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV, with the aim to eliminate HIV infections in infant children by 2015. This commitment is evident in the increased funding allocated to expand Niger’s PMTCT services, which rose from 2.6% of its total budget in 2010 to 15.9% in 2011. Similarly, Niger expanded its PMTCT pilot sites from seven in 2003 to 651 in 2012. Currently, HIV/AIDS infection among exposed infants is nearly non-existent, with 26,000 children born to HIV-positive mothers remaining uninfected and the current HIV prevalence rate among infants is 5%.

Additionally, condom social marketing was introduced in Niger in 2003 as part of the government’s efforts to combat HIV/AIDS. Targeted distribution of condoms has been a key strategy, with mobile vendors and kiosks providing access to condoms even along major transportation routes. The provision of free condoms has led to positive changes in sexual behavior. Between 2006 and 2011, there was a significant increase in the percentage of young men engaging in protected casual sex, rising from 38% to 66%.

Furthermore, in Niger, the health care sector offers HIV counseling and testing (HCT) as an integrated part of health services, available at blood transfusion centers and PMTCT sites. In 2008, the country had 172 HCT sites. However, by 2012, only 7-8% of females and 3% of males had undergone HIV testing. The higher percentage among women is attributed to PMTCT-related HCT services. The same year, the government allocated specific resources for provider-initiated counseling and testing (PICT). This initiative aimed to target individuals who were already in contact with the health sector and those at risk of HIV infection due to factors like multiple sex partners, unprotected sex or a history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Efforts by External Support

The Global Fund plays a critical role as a significant grant provider for Niger’s HIV/AIDS initiatives. Out of the total active grants amounting to €153.50 million (about $165 million) from 2021 to 2024, about 10% is directly allocated for HIV interventions in the country. Despite the relatively low prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Niger, specific key populations, such as prisoners, sex workers and homosexual individuals, remain disproportionately affected. Testing rates also continue to be low, with approximately 25% of adults and 50% of children unaware of their HIV status.

Between 2007 and 2012, the Global Fund grants accounted for 28% of the country’s spending on HIV/AIDS interventions. The Global Fund grants aim to achieve ambitious targets such as reducing new HIV infections and mortality rates, enhancing living conditions for people living with HIV and strengthening both the demand for and supply of quality health care and services for the entire population.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) also supported the Niger government in its fight against HIV and AIDS in 2018. UNICEF worked on a plan to increase HIV testing, treatment and PMTCT. By the end of the year, 96% of health facilities were providing PMTCT services. However, only 10% of babies born to HIV-positive moms were tested for HIV within two months of birth. This was because of limited medical equipment to carry out the tests.

To address this issue, UNICEF intervened by promoting the use of GeneXpert Point of Care machines already present in 12 laboratories nationwide. UNICEF also provided training and materials to 24 laboratory technicians, which enabled all regions of Niger to test HIV-exposed babies. UNICEF’s support to the government has led to 342,820 out of 417,393 women attending their first antenatal consultation to receive counseling and testing for HIV.

– Teniola Yusuf

Teniola is based in Norwich, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Tackling Poverty Among People With Disabilities in Niger

People With Disabilities in NigerIn Niger, disability affects a significant portion of the population, with approximately 4.2% of individuals living with disabilities, according to the African Disability Rights Yearbook. Sadly, these individuals often face social exclusion, hindering their ability to thrive and participate fully in economic activities. However, various initiatives are underway to promote inclusivity and empower people with disabilities in Niger. From targeted programs focusing on children and girls to collaborative efforts with international organizations, the country is striving to ensure equal opportunities for all its citizens, regardless of ability.

Societal Inclusion as a Strategy in Niger

Humanity & Inclusion (HI) is actively expanding its efforts in Niger to support individuals affected by armed conflicts and natural disasters. The organization is working to facilitate the socioeconomic advancement of people with disabilities through greater societal inclusion. It involves conducting research studies to identify the specific needs of individuals with disabilities and understand the barriers they encounter in achieving success when these needs are unmet.

The objective of these studies is to foster broader societal awareness of the challenges faced by people with disabilities. HI collaborates closely with local organizations, institutions and humanitarian actors to advocate for the integration of people with disabilities into society. Additionally, the organization is dedicated to ensuring that children with disabilities have access to primary education and the opportunity to pursue secondary education upon completion of their studies.

Programs for People With Disabilities in Niger

The government of Niger, along with international institutions, has implemented initiatives to support education and employment programs for individuals with disabilities. The Niger Learning Improvement for Results in Education Project, backed by $230 million, aims to improve educational access by constructing learning facilities, training educators and refining teaching methods nationwide.

Specifically, the project allocates funds for the construction of boarding schools and classrooms to facilitate girls’ access to education. Additionally, the Disability Inclusion Strategy, integrated into the International Organization for Migrant’s existing efforts, outlines the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities. This strategy emphasizes enhancing educational opportunities, particularly for girls who historically faced barriers to schooling.

Niger is committed to ensuring that individuals with disabilities have the necessary resources and opportunities to thrive and contribute to the economy. Furthermore, initiatives such as the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, one of many policies in Niger, strive for equal opportunities and societal integration by aligning with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

International Organization for Migration

In Niger, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has organized various initiatives to connect individuals with disabilities to employment opportunities. One notable event was the observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, 2019. Collaborating with local organizations in Agadez and Tahoua, the aim was to promote the societal inclusion of people with disabilities as outlined in the 2030 Agenda. The event featured conferences, presentations by local organizations, film screenings, bicycle races and poetry readings, all aimed at fostering integration and awareness.

– Ryan Patrick
Photo: Flickr

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Niger Eradicates River Blindness

Niger Eradicates River Blindness Onchocerciasis disease, or River Blindness, is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) plaguing Africa for years, thriving among poverty-ridden populations. The Gates Foundation, in partnership with other organizations, is combating this disease by making its medical treatment easily accessible. In 2023, Niger became the first African country to eliminate this disease, marking a significant achievement in public health. Niger eradicates river blindness, setting a precedent for other countries in the fight against NTDs.

River Blindness in Africa

River Blindness is a result of the bites of infected blackflies of the genus Simulium and its symptoms include visual impairment, intense itching, disfiguring skin conditions and permanent blindness. In 2018, onchocerciasis infection was most widespread in central and western Africa. The highest average infection rates at the national level were recorded in Ghana, with a prevalence of 12.2%. Furthermore, other countries with national infection rates exceeding 5% included Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Guinea-Bissau, Sierra Leone and South Sudan.

According to the Reaching the Last Mile Fund (RLMF), 240 million people are at risk of River Blindness and 99% of people infected with Onchocerciasis live in Africa. As stated earlier, Onchocerciasis is an NTD, which is a group of infectious diseases that primarily affect populations in tropical and subtropical regions, often characterized by limited health care access and insufficient attention from the global health community.

Moreover, as an NTD, River Blindness disproportionately affects the poorest populations, compounding the cycle of poverty by hindering access to preventive medicine and basic clinical care. The resulting blindness further limits economic opportunities for affected individuals, perpetuating the challenges faced by these communities. Addressing the complex interplay between health and socioeconomic factors is crucial to breaking this cycle and improving the overall well-being of those impacted by River Blindness.

Eliminating River Blindness in Niger

The primary approach for eradicating River Blindness involves population-based treatment using ivermectin, commonly referred to as mass drug administration (MDA). This strategy aims for a minimum therapeutic coverage of 80%. In regions with high and moderate endemicity (hyper and meso endemic areas), a sustained effort of 12-15 years of annual treatment is necessary to break the transmission cycle, aligning with the lifespan of the adult Onchocerca volvulus parasite.

Additionally, Merck generously donates the drug known as Mectizan®. Remarkably, the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially recognized four countries — Colombia in 2013, Ecuador in 2014, Mexico in 2015 and Guatemala in 2016 — as free from onchocerciasis after they successfully conducted elimination activities for several decades.

Globally, 1.8 million people now reside in areas where mass drug administration for onchocerciasis is no longer required. In 2023, Niger accomplished a significant milestone by becoming the initial African country to successfully halt the transmission of river blindness.

Looking Ahead

Senegal is on track to become the second African country to eliminate Onchocerciasis. Currently, the Gates Foundation collaborates with Reaching the Last Mile and other global partners to eliminate River Blindness and lymphatic filariasis in 39 countries across Africa and Yemen. In addition, this collaborative effort seeks to reduce the number of people needing treatment by 350 million. Niger eradicates river blindness, setting a significant precedent in the global health community’s fight against neglected tropical diseases.

– Lucciana Choueiry
Photo: Flickr

Addressing Period Poverty in Niger

Period Poverty in NigerPeriod poverty, the circumstance where menstruating females do not have access to sanitary or feminine products, is a common occurrence in many parts of the world. Although period poverty affects developed countries, including the United Kingdom and parts of the United States, it is most prevalent in underprivileged countries in South Asia and Africa, such as Niger, where nearly 25% of females are subject to this. Here is information about period poverty in Niger.

Causes of Period Poverty

One can attribute period poverty to many factors, from social to economic; however, UNICEF explained that one of the leading causes of its presence in Niger is the “long tradition of viewing menstruation as impure.” This long-standing belief, along with cultural taboos, lack of sex education and poverty, created a stigmatization of this menstruation cycle, causing people to ignore and overlook the issue.

Another contributing factor is that period products, such as tampons and pads, are expensive to buy, especially for girls in developing countries such as Niger. In Niger and other less-privileged areas, girls and boys begin working and supporting their families at a young age to survive, often earning just enough money for the bare necessities of food, water, clothing and shelter. In these circumstances, period products almost seem a frivolous need.

Statistics and Physical Impacts of Period Poverty in Niger

United Nations Women of Africa conducted a study on menstrual hygiene in Niger in February of 2018. The results exemplified the results of a severe lack of period products, with 31% of women taking breaks from their occupation during their cycle or even quitting to avoid the embarrassment of bleeding out. One in 10 school girls was also reported to have stayed home during their cycle.

Period poverty also has a vast impact on females physically. Due to the lack of proper sanitation products, women often opt for less safe and healthy ways to manage their hygiene during their cycles. For example, Niger women frequently stuffed unclean cloth strips or foams in their undergarments rather than pads. 

These poor hygiene methods, explained by the National Library of Medicine, often cause health concerns such as “reproductive and urinary tract infections, thrush, and others.” Other diseases include pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which leads to blood loss and, eventually, anemia. These infections can easily worsen, especially without access to proper medicine.

Mental Impacts of Period Poverty

Not only does period poverty have a physical impact on females, but it also has a mental effect, as women who were subject to poverty had a significantly higher chance of developing depressive symptoms and anxiety. These feelings are also accompanied by lowered mental health, low self-esteem and lowered self-perception. The shame and stigma associated with menstruation may cause girls to feel a sense of embarrassment and a lack of self-empowerment, negatively affecting their ability to lead an enjoyable life. Period poverty especially challenges females in the workplace and at school, as they are often overwhelmed with extreme anxiety and fear. 

Efforts to Combat Period Poverty in Niger

Social Voices reported that activism campaigns recognized that the main obstacle to addressing period poverty in developing countries such as Nigeria and Niger is affordability. Campaigns such as One Voice Initiative for Women and Children Emancipation (OVIWCE) and Reaching Minds Foundation have created and distributed reusable sanitary pads. These pads are made up of environmentally friendly fabrics and are durable. Women can reuse these pads month after month, cutting back the costly price of usual disposable pads. 

OVIWCE has been distributing these reusable pads since 2016, and between 2020 and 2021, it claimed that they had reached nearly 5,000 people, 3,000 of them being schoolgirls. The organization also worked on teaching communities how to create reusable pads. Joseph Adebajo, the founder of OVIWCE, explained, “We had twenty staff and volunteers who had the knowledge and embarked on training people in communities we had distributed pads to in the past on how to make the pads.” Pad Up, a company in Nigeria, became one of the first African companies dedicated to creating these types of pads.

Looking Ahead

Period poverty in Niger, though not an uncommon issue, results in a plethora of consequences for young girls and women. They create diseases from unsanitary practices which are potentially deadly. Furthermore, it also has an impact on mental health, decreasing female empowerment and increasing the stigmatization of menstrual cycles. However, NGOs such as OVIWCE, among others, are currently creating and distributing reusable pads to make period poverty an issue of the past.

– Emma Luu
Photo: Flickr

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Unraveling the Complex Tapestry of Poverty in Niger

Poverty in NigerIn 2021, the UN’s triennial review acknowledged Niger as one of the world’s least-developed countries. In 2023, circumstances have progressively worsened. With the recent military coup d’etat throwing the dependability of International aid into question, natural disasters vulnerability with recurrent flooding and drought, persistent food insecurity and overwhelming population growth, the potential for any economic or social resurgence comes with an inherent difficulty. The focus of this article is to give insight into the stark realities of poverty conditions in Niger, discuss the impact the recent military coup will inevitably have on development and recovery, and finally give light to the initiatives in place designed to rehabilitate the state and what the future might look like.

Examining the Stark Realities of Poverty in Niger

Projections for 2023 from the World Bank estimated that levels of extreme poverty in Niger were to reach 44.1%, that is, more than 12 million people living below the poverty line. Simultaneously, figures from the World Bank also indicate that by September 2023, Niger had been host to more than 700,000 displaced people. Providing provisions and sanctity for the likes of refugees and asylum seekers is not uncommon in Niger, since the country shares borders with some seven other countries, notably Burkina Faso, Chad and Mali. Niger has always been a popular crossroads for migrants. In addition to the overwhelming pressures of providing for foreign migrants, Niger holds one of the world’s fastest-growing populations, with 6.8 births per woman, and comprises a populace that youth dominates. 

Niger’s geography not only leaves it exposed to migration but also vulnerable to the extremities of natural disasters. Niger’s land is largely infertile, a state dictated by savanna and deserts, leaving little room for agricultural development. Despite this, agriculture still contributes to more than 40% of the national GDP — an indication of the frailty of their economy. Flooding in September 2023 caused the collapse of more than 14,000 homes, taking 51 lives in the process. Niger also currently ranks 120th of 125 countries on the Global Hunger Index, which notes a 16.1% rate of Child Wasting, i.e., children under five that are underweight, and a 47.7% rate of Child Stunting (children under five with low height for their age due to chronic undernutrition).

Unpacking the Aftermath: Coup d’État and Its Impact on Poverty in Niger

On July 26, 2023, a military coup led by the now self-proclaimed Head of State Abdourahamane Tiani overthrew Niger’s government. The immediate aftermath witnessed a pause, then suspension, of international aid from the U.S., condemnation and threat of military intervention from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and further financial aid was halted from the EU, France, Germany and more. Deteriorating relations with such significant foreign powers will inevitably have a catastrophic impact on Niger’s economy, with France having committed as much as €120 million in 2022 (a figure that was anticipated to be exceeded in 2023), the U.S. suspending nearly $200 million in foreign assistance programs, and the EU having allocated more than €500 million of its budget between 2021-24 to development in governance, education and sustainable growth. 

The military coup in Niger is the third in the Sahel region in as many years, following on from similar revolts in Burkina Faso and Mali. Consequently, in 2023 Niger formed the Alliance of Sahel States with Burkina Faso and Mali, unifying against the potential for a military intervention from ECOWAS. This, accompanied by the announcement that France will begin to withdraw its military presence from Niger, has led to growing skepticism over whether a way back can be found.

Catalyzing Change: Progress and its Challenges in Niger

Despite circumstances seeming especially dire in Niger, there are initiatives in place and positives to be taken in the fight for social and economic resurgence. Although suspending significant funding to foreign assistance programs, the U.S. has committed to maintaining its humanitarian presence by facilitating food and health assistance to benefit the people of Niger. The World Bank has established clear aims that can rebuild the Nigerian economy, although this heavily relies upon a resolution being met with ECOWAS and key International benefactors. 

The UN has proven determined to maintain its humanitarian capacity in Niger, providing as many as 22,000 persons with food and cash assistance weekly This commitment does not, however, come without challenge, evidenced by the expulsion of its Resident Coordinator/Humanitarian Coordinator in early October. Alliances with neighboring states Burkina Faso and Mali provided the means for Niger to open its borders not long after the siege. 

However, sanctions that ECOWAS placed upon Niger have largely inhibited its means of trade. So much so that Members of the House of Representatives have posed the question to the Nigerian government to reopen borders with Niger amid growing concerns over the consequential hardship faced by Nigerians. Ultimately the means for prosperity and development are readily available, to attain this Niger and its counterparties must come to a resolution that puts the needs of Nigerien people first.

– Ruairí Greene
Photo: Flickr

Camels to Help Ease Poverty in Niger    

Poverty in Niger
When something so essential to a country’s well-being is on an economic swing, it may be hard for it to maintain— especially if there is no warning of the ways that will lead to an abundance of woes. In a land where agriculture is dire to the prosperity of its people, many cannot afford the setbacks stemming from a poor water infrastructure. However, in Niger, where the water is either too little or too much to sustain anyone, it is the livestock that heavily influences the level of poverty in Niger and determines who the poverty affects.

Background

Harmattan’s dry, dust-filled winds are frequent in Africa’s west side, dissolving clouds, lowering humidity and replacing the once fertile landscapes with inarable terrain. Increased temperatures in these settings will lead to the pervasiveness of droughts and strain in the agricultural sector— one that employs almost 90% of the population and could be a way out of poverty in Niger.

Last year, Niger experienced a 78% rainfall deficit in which its economy struggled to stay afloat. The agriculture sector makes up 40% of Niger’s GDP, missing the percentage of those living in extreme poverty by just 1.8%.

As the probability of a good year’s harvest dwindles due to prolonged drought, irregular rainfall and the increase in unsuitable land to carry out agricultural activity, many find themselves working in the field of livestock production where the benefits seem to outweigh the risks.

Livestock has a heavy association with wealth; 69% of livestock herders did so to make money. In rural areas, this figure increased by 10% with 79% of the population reporting that they were involved in livestock work to generate wealth, according to the 2020 Helda report.

Camels as a Status Animal

Though livestock production is not an avenue all Nigeriens explore, it is responsible for 90% of the country’s exports. However, all livestock production is not for monetary gain. According to World Atlas, some Nigeriens opt for subsistence farming where they carry out tasks to sustain themselves and their family.

Niger is a country that mainly uses camels due to their ability to withstand extensive droughts, high tolerance to desiccation and the low-risk, high-reward nature of the even-toed ungulate. Camels could be the safest animal to possess in comparison to other livestock animals as they are capable of providing a stable source of food and finances. They traditionally helped to extract water from dwellings, transportation and pack saddling. Now with new technology, they can help to plow through deserted soil and expose the nutrient-rich ones that were hidden underneath, providing farmers with a new, cost-effective way to cultivate the land.

During the dry season, farmers who engage in transhumance pastoralism begin to move their livestock through Niger’s mainlands in order for their livestock to feed, according to the 2020 Helda report. On these expeditions, herders sell, trade with or buy from locals. One camel can cost and sell for more than $1,600.

Breeding camels contribute to economic expansion as various breeds are in high demand. The value of the camel and other livestock goes without saying. In rural parts of Niger, people use livestock as an alternative payment method, according to the 2020 Helda report. Having a multitude of animals is also seen as a status symbol.

Milk Production

Camels also produce milk. However, milk coming from camels only consisted of 10.1% of the annual milk-related products to have come from the country, according to the 2020 Helda report. However, one entrepreneur, Wouro Habsatou Aboubacar set out to change that when she started her own camel milking and herding business as a teen. Aboubacar owns more than 100 camels and provides local groceries with milk and its townspeople with a source of employment. Niger is one of the top milk producers in West Africa, making more than 1,700 liters of milk a year, according to the 2020 Helda report.

Poverty Reduction

Rural poverty in Niger was at a time, averaging 65.5% in 1999. Urban poverty stood at 35.3%. Since the use of livestock as a means of survival and poverty reduction has been implemented, poverty dropped from 2005-2011, when Niger was among one of the countries that surpassed other coastal countries in livestock production. During 2011-2012, Niger made more than $482 million a year off meat alone, according to the 2020 Helda report.

Nigerien farmers usually make $500 a year. This number could increase by 12% if small-scale irrigation becomes widespread. At present, Niger’s economy is recovering from blows taken during the pandemic where their economy dropped by 1.5%, according to the World Bank. The agricultural boom could not only help the nation’s overall economy but the people living there as well.

– Dorothy Quanteh
Photo: Flickr

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10 Facts About Poverty in Niger

Poverty in Niger
Niger is a country in West Africa and is one of the world’s most impoverished nations. Although the country has made a significant effort in poverty reduction, Niger’s extreme poverty rate was 41.4% in 2019, affecting 9.5 million people. Here are the top 10 facts about poverty in Niger.

Top 10 Facts About Poverty in Niger

  1. Niger’s fast-growing population adds to its high poverty rate. The United Nations expects Niger’s population to triple by 2050. As a result, the country’s inability to break the cycle of poverty for impoverished families will increase.
  2. Population Services International (PSI) Corporation promotes family planning resources in Niger. In 2019, PSI partnered with the Nigerien Ministry of Public Health to administer an outreach mission for voluntary family planning to rural areas of Niger. For example, the operation provided long-acting contraception methods and health education.
  3. Niger battles hunger. As of 2015, with a population of 18 million, 81% of Niger’s population lives in rural areas. Due to the rurality, most of the community does not have access to a food market. This exacerbates the problem of food security for the 20% of citizens who do not have enough food.
  4. Action Against Hunger aided 429,301 Nigeriens in 2018. The program provided better access to food markets and seasonal cast-for-work opportunities. Action Against Hunger assisted families by donating seeds and agricultural tools to those in need.
  5. Niger encounters climate challenges. As a country in West Africa, the Sahara Desert covers 80% of Niger, causing challenges for agriculture. The dry climate and minimal crop growth force 40% of Nigerien children under the age of five to experience malnutrition.
  6. Frequent droughts harm Niger’s economy. Niger’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, accounting for more than 40% of its GDP. As a result, when the country faces continuous short rainy seasons, there are food and job shortages.
  7. The World Food Programme (WFP) assists Niger’s farmers. The WFP buys produce from local Niger farmers and connects the farmers with corporate markets. This program helps the farmers to gain a steady income and reduce poverty.
  8. CARE Niger transforms the lives of Nigerien citizens. Since 1973, CARE Niger has reduced hunger through its Food Security and Nutrition and Management of Natural Resources Program. The plan established farmer field schools that advocated for markets and nutrition.
  9. Conflicts near Niger’s borders affect its citizens. Thousands of Nigerians have fled Nigeria to Niger due to violent extremism. As a result, almost 23,000 Nigerian refugees arrived in Niger in April 2020 alone.
  10. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) establishes nutritional opportunities for Niger. In April of 2020, USAID announced a five-year plan titled the Yalwa Activity, which plans to bolster the capabilities of Nigerien farmers by mandating access to affordable, safe food. Additionally, the Yalwa Activity will enhance food storage for farmers, allowing farmers to sell their produce at markets across Niger.

With its growing population, harsh climate and troubled borders, Niger remains one of the world’s most impoverished nations. Nevertheless, through outreach and international aid, Niger hopes to reduce its extreme poverty rates.

– Kacie Frederick 
Photo: Flickr

Top 10 Facts About Living Conditions in Niger

Top 10 Facts About Living Conditions in Niger
Following its independence from France in 1960, Niger has faced violent political instability,  deadly droughts and difficult living conditions. The following are the top ten facts about living conditions in Niger.

Top Ten Facts About Living Conditions in Niger

  1. In 2016, Save the Children declared Niger the “worst country for girls” based on two key criteria: child marriage rates and adolescent fertility.

  2. A high rate of child marriage often holds girls back. Over three quarters of Nigerien girls marry before the age of 18. Early marriage only continues the cycle of poverty: girls who marry earlier are less likely to finish school than girls who marry later, which means that they earn less income on average.

  1. High adolescent fertility puts women in danger. In Niger, one in five teenage girls gives birth every year. Nigerien women have the highest birthrate in the world, at over seven births per woman. And childbirth is particularly dangerous for younger girls: WHO estimates that pregnancy complications are the second leading cause of death for adolescent girls worldwide.

  1. “Husband schools” help build stronger families. To ease the burden on Nigerien woman, men learn the importance of helping with what was traditionally considered “women’s work.” The nonprofit Mercy Corps invites men to “husband schools,” where they learn about family planning, cooking and sanitation. Mercy Corps runs 124 such schools in Niger.

  1. High illiteracy remains a stubborn challenge. Only one in five adults in Niger are literate, and as a former French colony, the official language of schooling in Niger is French. Most Nigeriens, though, speak local tribal languages instead, making French literacy a particularly difficult goal.

  1. Frequent droughts make food scarce. Since 2000, Niger has weathered four extreme climate-related food crises. In such seasons of poor rainfall, 30 percent of people cannot meet their food needs. In 2017, one and a half million Nigeriens were food insecure, and 42 percent of children under age 5 faced chronic malnutrition.

  1. The World Food Program protects Nigerien children. To tackle the effects of food insecurity, the World Food Program treated 650,000 acutely malnourished children and nearly half a million malnourished pregnant and lactating mothers in 2015 alone.

  2. Uranium mining depletes Nigerien resources. The French company Areva mines for uranium in the Nigerien town of Arlit. Areva uses millions of liters of water each day, while Arlit’s vegetation has entirely dried up. A 2010 Greenpeace study showed that over its decade of operation, Areva has used 270 billion liters of water, entirely depleting ancient aquifers.

  3. Mining contaminates Nigerien water. A 2009 study by Greenpeace showed that five out of six examined water wells in Arlit contained excess radioactivity. And a 2004 study by the French Commission for Independent Research and Information on Radiation showed that uranium levels found in Arlit’s drinking water were up to 100 times the WHO safety standard.

  4. Activists stand up against corporate exploitation. After her mother, father and husband died from cancer traced back to radon exposure from Areva’s uranium mines, Jacqueline Gaudet founded the organization Mounana. The organization works with Doctors of the World to collect testimonies from Areva’s former employees to build court cases.

Remedying Colonialism

These top ten facts about living conditions in Niger reflect the need for international assistance to help remedy the harmful effects of colonialism. While living conditions in Niger are difficult, dedicated activists and nonprofits are steadily changing the landscape.

– Ivana Bozic

Photo: Flickr

The Organizations and Steps Used in Reducing Poverty in Niger

Niger is one of the poorest countries in the world, ranked last on UNDP’s 2015 Human Development Index — nearly 20 percent of Nigerien population cannot meet their food needs due to insufficient production. Less than 12 percent of the land in Niger is actually fertile, and there is an expected 33 percent decrease in agricultural activity in the next 50 years.

According to World Bank, the best way to help the situation is to grow drought resistant crops and come up with new ways to store water.

However, these efforts may be challenged by the conflicts spilling in from three of Niger’s neighboring countries. The conflict in northern Nigeria has relocated many chronically malnourished people into the Lake Chad area. Fighting has crossed over the border, worsening local food insecurity and endangering host communities, refugees and humanitarian workers.

Access to clean water is nearly nonexistent. Lack of food and water has caused malnutrition, disease, flooding and displacement — all of which contribute significantly to poverty in Niger. Many families are unable to provide the basic needs of food and clean water for their children. Save the Children is working to alleviate suffering among child refugees, returnees, internally displaced children and locals through health and nutrition programs, among others.

The World Food Programme has been working with Niger since 1968 to alleviate hunger and malnutrition.

The organisation has aligned its goals with the United Nations’ 2030 agenda, most notably with sustainable development goals 2 and 17: “End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture,” and “Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.”

Oxfam has also assisted in reducing poverty in Niger for 25 years. They raise money to implement an education system and pastoral communities by means of lobbying and demanding accountability from the states.

Oxfam is using the media to promote a strong social society through political participation and reducing gender-based violence, women leadership and promoting sexual equality. They are installing a water system to provide clean drinking water for essential activities.

With a continued effort to reduce poverty in Niger, these organizations and other coordinated global forces will hopefully be able to make a lasting difference in the lives of these vulnerable people.

– Nicole Hentzell

Photo: Flickr