Niamey – The Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) donated €3 million to the World Food Programme (WFP) of the United Nations in Niger. In addition to assisting UNHAS operations in Niger, the financing intends to meet the critical needs of vulnerable communities for food and education.
The General Coordinator of AECID in Niger, Montserrat Solés Franch, stressed Spain’s dedication to bolstering programs that offer vital lifelines to communities hit by disasters. The donation will significantly affect Niger’s most vulnerable populations.
The financial support from Spain will enable cash transfers to over 65,000 recipients in crisis-affected areas, guaranteeing the most vulnerable have access to wholesome food. Furthermore, it will make it possible to feed about 20,000 school-age boys and girls in regrouping centers throughout the Tillabéri region with emergency school meals. School meals serve a significant role in emergency circumstances, giving not just nutrition but also helping children attend school without the distraction of hunger.
The difficult circumstances that disadvantaged populations in Niger are facing—where growing food costs are placing a strain on families—were brought to light by Jean-Noel Gentile, the WFP Country Director for Niger. Beyond only delivering wholesome food, AECID’s timely assistance is a lifeline for many Nigeriens, relieving them of the stress of worrying about their next meal. Additionally, UNHAS will be better able to guarantee prompt and efficient responses from development and humanitarian partners in Niger thanks to the funding from AECID. This donation is especially important because UNHAS operations were disrupted by financial shortages in 2023, putting the continuation of this essential service beyond January 2024 in jeopardy. The ability of humanitarian organizations to operate within the nation successfully is severely hampered by this predicament. With a political crisis, economic sanctions, and border closures escalating hunger and humanitarian needs, Niger is confronted with a complicated situation. According to the November 2023 Cadre Harmonisé, 2.3 million people in Niger experience acute food insecurity, even though food availability increases following the harvest season. As the biggest humanitarian organization in the world, the WFP is committed to saving lives in times of need and utilizing food assistance to help those recovering from natural disasters, armed conflicts, and the effects of climate change establish a road to peace, stability, and prosperity.