Niger is the poorest country in the world. Improved access to drinking water and a better understanding of agroecology will finally help to combat hunger.

Many people in Niger are still hungry for months at a time and have no access to drinking water. SWISSAID is working to help smallholder families learn more about the principles and practice of agroecology so that the often depleted fields can yield more again. In “Blue Schools” – schools with a modern water point, sanitation facilities and a school garden – children learn the basics of hygiene and nutrition. The role of women and young people in Nigerian society will also be strengthened.

Facts

In the country since:
1974
Activity:
Dosso, Tillabéry
Rank in the Human Development Index:
189 out of 191
Current Projects:
10
Annual budget:
CHF 3’520'942

Aims

  • Thanks to more understanding of agroecology, better equipment and access to local seeds, smallholder families can produce more in their fields.
  • Access to drinking water and measures such as the installation of village sanitation facilities and the construction of latrines and hand-washing facilities in schools and health centres improve the health of the beneficiary population groups.
  • The economic, social and political role of women and young people is strengthened through awareness-raising measures and educational work.

The Niger country program is co-financed by the SDC program contribution.