The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has issued a somber statement, revealing that more than two million children in Niger are currently in need of urgent humanitarian assistance. This distressing situation has been exacerbated by the recent coup and the ongoing threat of jihadist violence in the country.
Even before the current crisis, UNICEF had estimated that around 1.5 million children under the age of five were already suffering from malnutrition, with at least 430,000 experiencing the most severe form of malnutrition. These shocking figures could escalate further if food prices continue to rise and the country’s economy deteriorates, leaving families struggling to provide for their children.
The situation is further compounded by electricity shortages, which have long plagued Niger and have been intensified by the sanctions imposed on the country following the coup. This power deficit has severely impacted the cold chain, potentially rendering infant vaccines ineffective due to insufficient refrigeration in healthcare facilities.
While UNICEF has been tirelessly working to provide assistance to children throughout Niger, vital supplies are currently blocked at various entry points, including the border with Benin. In light of this, UNICEF is urgently appealing to all actors involved in the crisis to ensure unhindered access for humanitarian workers and supplies. Additionally, the organization implores donors to safeguard humanitarian funds from multilateral or unilateral sanctions.
Niger, one of the world’s poorest countries, heavily relies on foreign support, both economically and energetically. Furthermore, it has been grappling with relentless jihadist attacks in the western and southeastern parts of the country for several years.
The situation in Niger is dire, and immediate action is essential to protect the well-being and future of over two million vulnerable children. UNICEF’s appeal serves as a rallying cry for all stakeholders to join forces in addressing this urgent humanitarian crisis. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of these children, ensuring they receive the assistance they so desperately need.
By Jide Johnson, African News.
