(Ecofin Agency) - Niger, like most Sahel countries, is facing an economic and security crisis. In 2020, the country’s economic challenges were worsened by climate shocks. To support government reconstruction efforts, several partners are contributing financial and technical support. 

The World Bank granted, Friday (April 15), US$250 million to improve municipal management in Niger, according to a release published the same day by the institution.  

This funding will help 25 municipalities fight drought, flood, and extreme heat in the framework of the Niger “Integrated Urban Development and Multi-Sectoral Resilience project.”   

For Pierre Xavier Bonneau, Acting World Bank Country Manager for Niger, "this project will further strengthen the resilience of the most vulnerable and contribute to a sustained recovery in the most affected areas."  It aims to improve the living conditions of nearly 3.4 million people by 2028. 

The initiative will support recovery and reconstruction efforts after the 2020 floods, boost flood resilience in 14 cities, and improve access to urban infrastructure and basic services by providing cities with investment options that will allow them to address their respective key challenges. It will also develop a technical assistance program to build the capacity of municipalities and improve management. 

According to the World Bank, nearly 42% of the Nigerien population lives in extreme poverty. The country, which recorded a 5.8% GDP growth in 2019, saw its economy slow to 3.6% in 2020. 

Jean-Marc Gogbeu