Niger

We have been working in Niger since 2005 and have programs throughout the country. We work in partnership with communities, government, civil society and the private sector, to implement programs that have a lasting impact, inspire change and uphold children's rights. Our work supports long-term development and humanitarian emergencies, and bridges the gap between the two.

Niger has one of the highest rates of child marriage in the world, with 76% of girls marrying before the required age. Girls are also more likely than boys to be withdrawn from school to be given in forced marriage, when families are exposed to the cycle of chronic poverty.

The situation of children is currently undermined by the combined consequences of food security, conflict and social inequality. Children are the hardest hit by the inequalities and discrimination caused by these crises.  

Some 4.4 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance, 50% of whom are children. Moreover, the State of Niger allocates just 1% of its overall budget to child protection.

Education: We improve access to quality learning by training teachers, building infrastructure, providing equipment and promoting inclusive education. We also organize early learning programs for children under the age of six, and help older children who have dropped out of school to resume their studies.

Health and nutrition: We support rural clinics to improve maternal and neonatal health, providing equipment, medicines and training. We organize feeding programs for malnourished children and mothers, encourage breastfeeding and provide information on sexual and reproductive health to adolescents.

Child protection and child rights governance: we help children to know and claim their rights, and to make their voices heard by those in power. We help strengthen local and national child protection systems, make schools and other facilities safer, and provide safe spaces for the most vulnerable children.

Youth livelihoods and child poverty: we help families break out of the cycle of poverty, through a range of vocational training and by equipping young people with the skills they need to earn a sustainable income. We help community savings and credit groups invest for the future and create small businesses.