Niger

From safe schools to ending child marriage to cleaning up the oceans, children across the globe used their voices for their rights

Over 60 children from 16 African countries are urging their heads of state at the Africa Climate Summit this week to consider their views and experiences in shaping climate policies, with children in most of the continent found to be at high or extremely high risk of the impacts of climate change.

Every year the Tabaski event involves the mass grilling of sheep, which in the capital city Niamey alone typically requires nearly 50,000 tonnes of wood - or the felling of about 25,000 trees [1]. Falling this year right after World Environment Day on 5 June, preparations for the event have contributed to Niger’s ongoing deforestation and desertification, with the country losing more than 100,000 hectares of arable land each year. The annual grilling also leads to major air pollution issues.

Escalating violence has led to a five-fold surge in the number of children forced from their homes over the past five years in central Sahel.

Joint Statement on Humanitarian situation in Niger by humanitarian organisations

SAHEL FOOD CRISIS: FAMILIES STRUGGLING TO FEED AND EDUCATE THEIR CHILDREN IN NIGER AND BURKINA FASO

Niger is one of the top 10 countries globally affected by climate change. Women are at the forefront of climate adaptation in Niger.