UNFPA in Niger: Breaking the Cycle of Poverty

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The human development situation in Niger is one of the bleakest in the world. The country ranked 173 out of 174 countries in UNDP’s 2000 Human Development Index. The majority of the population is extremely poor. One in every four children dies before his or her fifth birthday. The country’s levels of maternal mortality and fertility are among the highest in the world. And the high rate of HIV/AIDS prevalence and possible famine could make things even worse. Despite the vast challenges before it, the Government of Niger, with the help of UNFPA and other partners, has made impressive progress in improving the development situation of the people of Niger. But it needs increased resources to do more.

Niger's Commitment to Development

Over the past few years, the democratically-elected Government of Niger has achieved political stability and continues to grapple with deep economic problems resulting from poor agricultural harvests. The Government has demonstrated a strong commitment to development by significantly improving its legal framework in favor of women and ratifying the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. A nationwide census is also being conducted, with UNFPA support, to help plan for the future needs of the population. In addition, the Government has worked with UNFPA and other UN agencies and partners to develop a Common Country Assessment, to identify the development challenges facing the country.

Meeting Niger’s Needs through Development Assistance

UNFPA support to Niger has increased the availability and accessibility of quality reproductive health services, increased understanding of the linkages between population and development by key political and religious leaders, and trained hundreds in the community-based distribution of contraceptives. UNFPA has also conducted awareness campaigns to transmit life-saving information to young people and adolescents, and women in rural areas. But assistance must be expanded much further to help Niger achieve its development goals, including:

• Eradicating Extreme Poverty
• Promoting Gender Equality and Empowering Women
• Improving Maternal Health
• Reducing Child Mortality

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