Clean Water Access Is Directly Tied to Maternal and Child Health

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By Jalene Jacob

In June 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a global call to scale up midwifery models of care, urging countries to adopt more population-centered, evidence-based approaches to improving maternal and newborn health. 

This guidance emphasized a critical, yet often overlooked reality that midwives are frequently the first and only point of care for women in low-resource settings. However, without the basic infrastructure to support safe practices, even the most skilled clinicians face limitations. Access to clean water is one of the most powerful, yet under-addressed determinants of health, particularly for women and children.

Wells Bring Hope

Today, nearly 2 billion people worldwide still lack access to clean water. In communities across Sub-Saharan Africa, including Niger and Mali, as well as other underserved regions, waterborne illnesses, poor sanitation, and limited hygiene continue to undermine health, hinder education, and perpetuate poverty. The consequences are particularly devastating for pregnant women and newborns who are most vulnerable to infection and preventable complications.

For Wells Bring Hope, the mission goes beyond infrastructure. By providing sustainable, solar-powered wells, we help transform health outcomes, build resilience, and restore dignity to the residents of these communities. Our work addresses a growing health essential often highlighted by community organizations and other global institutions. Clean water is foundational to strong, inclusive health systems.

Wells Bring Hope Health Clinics

Beyond clinical skills

Safe care depends on more than clinical knowledge. It requires the ability to maintain hygiene, prevent infection, and ensure safe birthing environments. Yet according to WHO and UNICEF, 1 in 4 healthcare facilities worldwide lack basic water services and the consequences are fatal. Just imagine: more than 800 women die every day from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. These deaths are avoidable and many could be prevented with something as simple as clean water.

Access to safe water is one of the most cost-effective, high-impact interventions in public health. It plays a central role in achieving several of WHO’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including: good health and well-being, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, and reduced inequalities. 

The link to maternal and child health and well-being

Clean water access is directly tied to maternal and child health, school attendance, economic opportunity, and overall well-being. When water is safe and available, communities are healthier. Girls can stay in school instead of walking miles to fetch water. Health workers can operate in clean, infection-free environments. Families can grow food, earn income, and escape the cycle of poverty. In essence, clean water unlocks progress across every sector.

In closing, it is important to note that clean water is not a luxury, it is the foundation of public health. As WHO reminds us, strengthening care through midwifery and primary health services is essential to saving lives; however, these interventions cannot succeed in isolation. They must be supported by access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene.

Every community deserves access to basic resources regardless of geography or income, which is why Wells Bring Hope remains committed to funding at least one health clinic water system each year. This year, we have already funded three mechanized, solar-powered water systems for rural health care facilities. Each of these systems brings running water to the clinics treatment and exam rooms, making appropriate hygiene and sanitation practices possible and allowing women and newborns the dignity of a bath after birth.

Source

1. World Health Organization. (2025, June 18). WHO calls for global expansion of midwifery models of care. https://www.who.int/news/item/18-06-2025-who-calls-for-global-expansion-of-midwifery-models-of-care

2. World Health Organization & United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). (2021). Global progress report on water, sanitation and hygiene in health care facilities: Fundamentals first. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240017542

3. World Health Organization. (2023). Maternal mortality. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/maternal-mortality

4. United Nations. (n.d.). Sustainable Development Goals. https://sdgs.un.org/goals

Mali: A Brief History

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By Manvitha Kathula

Map: Empire of Mali under Mansa Musa (1337), provided by TheCollector.com

The Mali Empire, one of the greatest empires in African history, thrived from the early 13th to the 17th century, stretching across what is now Mali, Senegal, Gambia, Guinea, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, and parts of Niger. At its peak, Mali was a center of wealth, culture, and learning, drawing attention from across the Islamic world and beyond.

Founding & Expansion

The story of Mali begins in the fertile lands of the Niger River valley, where a small Mandinka kingdom gradually grew into a dominant regional power. Around 1235, the empire was firmly established after Sundiata Keita, a skilled warrior and strategist, defeated Sosso king Soumaoro Kanté at the Battle of Kirina. Sundiata then made Niani the empire’s capital and laid the foundations for centuries of political unity, prosperity, and cultural development.

Trade & Wealth

Mali’s influence was built on its control of the trans-Saharan trade routes, which connected West Africa to North Africa and the Mediterranean world. The empire grew wealthy by taxing the trade of high-demand goods like gold (especially from Bambuk and Bure), salt, ivory, and slaves.

Trade also encouraged the growth of cities, fostered agriculture (including crops like sorghum, millet, and rice), and supported animal husbandry with cattle, goats, and camels. As goods and ideas flowed through the region, Mali became not just an economic powerhouse but a cultural and intellectual one as well.

Mansa Musa & Islamic Scholarship

Detail from the Catalan Atlas Sheet 6 showing Mansa Musa attributed to Abraham Cresques shared by Wikimedia Commons

The most renowned ruler of Mali was Mansa Musa, who ruled from around 1312 to 1337. He is best remembered for his legendary pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324, during which he distributed so much gold in Cairo that it disrupted the local economy for years.

But Mansa Musa’s legacy goes far beyond his wealth. He turned Timbuktu and Gao into vibrant centers of Islamic learning, inviting architects and scholars from across the Muslim world. Under his patronage, mosques, libraries, and madrasas flourished, and Timbuktu became a repository of knowledge with thousands of manuscripts covering theology, science, medicine, and law.

Culture & Architecture

Mali’s cities reflected a unique blend of Islamic influence and West African traditions. The empire’s architecture, especially in cities like Djenné and Timbuktu, is characterized by mud-brick construction and the distinctive Sudano-Sahelian style. The Great Mosque of Djenné, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a powerful symbol of Mali’s cultural achievements.

The Great Mosque of Djenne located in Mali West Africa shared by Wikimedia Commons

The empire also produced intricate terra-cotta sculptures, many dating from the 13th to 15th centuries, which offer glimpses into daily life. Archers, horsemen, and local customs were depicted with remarkable detail and artistry.

Decline & Legacy

After Mansa Musa’s death, the empire slowly declined due to internal power struggles, regional rebellions, and foreign invasions. The Battle of Jenné in 1599, fought against Moroccan forces, marked a decisive blow to Mali’s remaining power and influence.

Yet the legacy of the Mali Empire endures. Its language (Mandinka) and cultural traditions remain strong across West Africa. The empire’s contributions to education, religion, architecture, and commerce continue to inspire pride and admiration. And the story of Mansa Musa who is the emperor who reshaped the world’s understanding of African wealth and knowledge still captures imaginations today.

Sources:

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3AMALI_empire_map.PNG

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?search=The+Great+Mosque+of+Djenn%C3%A9&title=Special%3AMediaSearch&type=image

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Catalan_Atlas_BNF_Sheet_6_Mansa_Musa_(cropped).jpg

https://www.thecollector.com/maps-resources/empire-mali-mansa-musa-map

https://www.culturesofwestafrica.com/west-african-kingdoms

Supporting Malian Health Reform from the Ground Up

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By Jalene Jacob

Mali has embarked on an ambitious journey to rebuild its healthcare system, unveiling a comprehensive plan that includes 973 recommendations across 68 strategic areas. This initiative aims to address critical challenges such as the shortage of medical personnel, inadequate funding, and limited access to healthcare services, particularly in rural regions. 

A cornerstone of this transformation is the integration of digital technologies. The government has launched a $35 million National Strategic Digital Health Plan (2024 – 2028) to modernize health infrastructure, implement telemedicine solutions, and create a national health database. Additionally, the DISC-MALI initiative aims to equip over 25,000 community health workers with digital tools that will enhance planning, implementation, and monitoring of health services at the community level. 

Credit: WBH

However, the success of these healthcare reforms is intrinsically linked to the availability of clean water. Access to safe drinking water is fundamental for effective healthcare delivery, influencing everything from infection control in medical facilities to the overall health and well-being of communities. Clean water reduces the prevalence of waterborne diseases, decreases child mortality rates, and enables better hygiene practices. All are essential for a robust healthcare system. 

Credit: WBH

Building Wells Supports Health Reforms

Recognizing this, both Wells Bring Hope and the USAID Anka Jiko Activity have worked in Mali to build much needed infrastructure. In Mali, approximately 61% of rural villagers lack access to safe water, and 63% have no access to basic sanitation facilities. By drilling deep wells and implementing sustainable water systems, both organizations seek to transform the lives of these communities. 

Since Wells Bring Hope’s strategic move into Mali in late 2024, we have funded 24 water projects across rural Malian communities. The USAID Anka Jiko Activity also inaugurated new water systems in four villages, providing clean drinking water to over 190,000 people and irrigation access to at least 1,800 community garden users. Wells Bring Hope and USAID use the same technology, that is, solar-powered pumps and gravity-fed tap stands, ensuring sustainable and reliable water supply. 

Now the Need Is Even More Critical

Because USAID’s funds have been eliminated and it is being dismantled, the work of Wells Bring Hope is even more critical. 

As Mali strives to enhance its healthcare infrastructure, the importance of clean water cannot be overstated. It is the lifeblood of health and development, and efforts to provide it are crucial for the success of healthcare reforms. The impact of clean water extends beyond health. It enables girls to attend school instead of spending hours fetching water; it empowers women to engage in income-generating activities and it fosters overall community development. These outcomes align with Mali’s broader goals of rebuilding its healthcare system and improving the well-being of its citizens. 

Wells Bring Hope’s initiatives provide the essential infrastructure that supports Malian reforms, ensuring that communities have the resources needed for a healthier and more prosperous future. 

With the demise of USAID, the need has never been greater.

Learn more about Mali’s Healthcare Initiatives 

Mali unveils ambitious plan to rebuild its healthcare system – APA News
https://apanews.net/mali-unveils-ambitious-plan-to-rebuild-its-healthcare-system/

Mali Ministry of Health Launches CHT-based DISC-MALI in a Milestone Moment toward Universal Health Coverage – Medic.org

https://medic.org/stories/mali-ministry-of-health-launches-cht-based-disc-mali/#:~:text=In%20a%20milestone%20moment%20on,aims%20to%20reach%20full%20national

Mali Launches $35 Mln Plan to Overhaul Digital Health – We are tech Africa
https://www.wearetech.africa/en/fils-uk/news/public-management/mali-launches-35-mln-plan-to-overhaul-digital-health

Between Poverty and Fragility: Affordable and Accessible Health Centers in Mali – World Bank Group

https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/feature/2024/07/11/between-poverty-and-fragility-affordable-and-accessible-health-centers-in-mali

Flowing into 2025: New water systems bring promise for the new year to rural Mali – Globalwaters.org

Partnerships for Health: Lessons from Niger’s Fight Against River Blindness 

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Jalene Jacob

Niger has made history. After decades of dedicated efforts, the country has become the first in Africa and 5th globally (joining Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala and Mexico) to successfully eliminate river blindness which is caused by the parasitic worm Onchocerca volvulus (O. volvulus).

Source: Gil Garcetti

Onchocerciasis, as it is formally known, is a debilitating disease of the eye and skin that once robbed thousands of people of their sight, livelihoods, and quality of life. Therefore, this triumphant achievement marks a major victory not only for Niger, but for global public health efforts aimed at eradicating neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). River blindness is only one of 21 known NTDs affecting over one billion people worldwide. 

A powerful and replicable model of collaboration is at the heart of Niger’s success. This achievement saw governments, international organizations, researchers, and communities working together to combat a disease that requires community treatment that is equivalent to the lifespan of the adult O. volvulus in order to eliminate transmission. That is, treatment spanning a minimum of 10 to 15 years. Niger’s journey offers key lessons on how global partnerships, combined with sustainable health interventions like clean water access, can bring life-changing results.

How Niger Eliminated River Blindness

River blindness is caused by a parasitic worm transmitted through the blackfly which thrives in areas with fast-flowing rivers. The disease leads to severe itching, skin disfigurement, and irreversible blindness. Historically, it devastated entire communities, leaving individuals unable to work or support their families. Niger’s success story is a testament to persistent and coordinated efforts across multiple sectors.

Some key success highlights include:

1. Mass Drug Administration (MDA)

Source: Hailshadow

The large-scale distribution of Ivermectin, a medication that kills the parasite, played a crucial role. Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the Carter Center, the Gates Foundation and the African Programme for Onchocerciasis Control ensured consistent drug access. The documented cost of treatment is less than US $0.50 per person.


2. Community Health Initiatives
Local health workers were trained to distribute treatments effectively and educate people about prevention. Such grass root efforts helped to increase compliance and community engagement, along with the participation of community volunteers.

3. Strong Government Commitment
Niger’s leadership remained steadfast in prioritizing NTD elimination, ensuring policies and resources aligned with this goal. These included the use of costly helicopter services and various insecticides for larvicide treatments to target hard to reach areas and the rivers of Southwest Niger. Such efforts reduced disease prevalence to almost zero.

4. International Support
Lastly, international funding, research, and scientific support from global partners helped track progress and design results-driven strategies.

The Role of Clean Water in Preventing Neglected Tropical Diseases

While medical treatment was key, other crucial factors in combating river blindness and other NTDs are clean water, improved sanitation and sustainable intervention strategies.

Investing in clean water infrastructure can reduce breeding grounds for disease and reduce exposure to these vectors. Blackflies, the insects that spread river blindness, thrive near contaminated water sources.

Additionally, many NTDs including trachoma (another leading cause of blindness) are closely linked to poor hygiene. Access to clean water for hand washing, cooking and bathing is vital in preventing disease transmission by breaking the cycle of infection.

Lastly, by empowering communities with access to clean water, residents can experience better overall health, increased economic opportunities and improved school attendance for children. This has been a proven and sustainable path to development.

At Wells Bring Hope, we recognize that clean water is not just a basic necessity, but a transformative tool for public health. By drilling wells and providing safe water access in Niger and neighboring countries, we are helping to build resilient communities that are less vulnerable to NTDs and other preventable diseases.

Lessons from Niger

Niger’s elimination of river blindness is a remarkable public health milestone, but the work is far from over. Millions of people worldwide still suffer from NTDs due to unsafe water, poor sanitation, and limited healthcare access.

This victory should serve as a blueprint for future global health initiatives, with emphasis placed on strengthening international collaboration for the implementation of elimination programs. Additionally, ensuring that communities have access to safe water will reduce the risk of disease outbreaks. Furthermore, supporting community-led health programs will empower local health workers and educate communities for long-term impact.

By combining medical interventions, sustainable clean water solutions, and strong global partnerships, we can move closer to eliminating preventable diseases and transforming lives. Niger has proven that with commitment, innovation, and collaboration, a world free of NTDs is possible.

At Wells Bring Hope, we are proud to be part of the solution, working every day to bring clean water, health, and hope to those who need it most.

Source

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/global-health/science-and-disease/nigers-historic-triumph-over-river-blindness-is-a-beacon-of

https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/a-historic-milestone!-who-verifies-niger-free-of-onchocerciasis-as-the-first-country-on-the-african-continent

https://www.who.int/news/item/30-01-2025-who-verifies-niger-as-the-first-country-in-the-african-region-to-eliminate-onchocerciasis

We’ve Expanded to Mali!

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By Barbara Goldberg and Kate Cusimano

Source: istockphoto

After 17 years of working only in Niger, we are excited to announce that Wells Bring Hope is expanding! At the suggestion of our longtime partner, World Vision, we have started working in Mali, Niger’s neighbor to the west. We kicked off this new effort by funding 24 solar-powered mechanized water projects in Mali in December of last year.

Source: WBH

Why Mali?

While the need is still great in Niger, we’ve made tremendous progress there, and Mali can use our help. Out of 193 countries on the U.N. Development Index, Mali ranks 188, followed closely by Niger and Chad, tied for 189.

Mali’s statistics are grim:

  • 44.7% of the population in Mali is in severe multi-dimensional poverty, with another 15.3% described as vulnerable to it.
  • Life expectancy at birth is 59.4 years
  • The average Malian receives just seven years of education
  • Maternal mortality is high – 440 deaths per 100,000 live births

We felt confident expanding our efforts because we know how outstanding the World Vision Mali team is. In fact, it is headed up by Mamane Amadou, the man we first worked with when we started in Niger.

Mali is not entirely new to us. Our first solar water project was drilled in the village of Nonsombougou, Mali in 2012.

Source: WBH

Like Niger, Mali is fascinating country with rich cultural traditions, and we look forward to introducing you to the nation and its people as we continue our work of saving lives with safe water in West Africa. We look forward to this renewed relationship and anticipate as much success in Mali as we’ve had in Niger.

‘More than a Game’ – Healing Through Sports

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By Jalene Jacob

Youth who once appeared withdrawn and distrustful are now engaging with peers, laughing on the field, and setting goals for the future. That’s the power of sports and community.

In a dusty corner of Niger, a country at the crossroads of migration routes, a groundbreaking initiative is quietly changing lives. A sports center is providing more than just a place to play games; it’s offering hope, healing, and the foundation for a brighter future for vulnerable youth.

Wikimedia commons

Life as a Refugee

Niger has long been a host to refugees and migrants fleeing conflict, poverty and persecution in the Sahel region and beyond. Many of these individuals, particularly young people, arrive with physical and emotional scars from their tumultuous journeys. Forced to abandon their homes, these youth endure harrowing experiences, including violence and exploitation, often leaving them with profound trauma.

For many, the daily grind for survival exacerbates feelings of hopelessness, with little opportunity for education or personal growth.

The Healing Power of Sports

Sports have a universal power to unite and inspire. The sports center in Niger harnesses this power, providing vulnerable youth with a safe space to rediscover joy, build resilience, and develop essential life skills.

Here, football (soccer) and other team sports are more than mere recreational activities. They serve as therapy, helping participants process their trauma and regain a sense of normalcy. Through structured programs, young refugees learn teamwork, discipline, and communication, all skills they can carry into their personal and professional lives.

The center provides mentorship and psychological support. Coaches and counselors are trained to recognize the signs of trauma and offer guidance, fostering an environment where youth can rebuild their confidence and self-worth.

The Transformative Power of Sports

The sports center has already begun to transform lives. Many have expressed how the program has given them a renewed sense of purpose. In addition to individual benefits, the initiative promotes social cohesion. By bringing together refugees, migrants, and local Nigerien youth, the center fosters mutual understanding and reduces tensions in a region often strained by the influx of displaced populations.

It’s ‘More Than a Game.’

The impact of this initiative extends beyond the playing field. Empowered youth are more likely to pursue education and vocational training, contributing positively to their communities. As they heal and grow, they become ambassadors of resilience, inspiring others in their camp and beyond.

The center in Niger is a testament to the transformative power of sports. For vulnerable youth, it is a lifeline, a place where they can heal from the past, embrace the present, and dream of a brighter future.

In a world where conflict and displacement continue to uproot lives, initiatives like this remind us that sometimes, the most profound changes begin with something as simple as a game.

Sources

https://www.fondazionemilan.org/en/fondazione-milan-and-unhcr-together-in-niger

https://www.unhcr.org/us/about-unhcr/our-partners/sport-partners/unhcr-sport-strategy-2022-2026

https://www.voanews.com/amp/thousands-of-migrants-stranded-in-niger-because-of-border-closures/7237534.html

https://rodakar.iom.int/news/iom-niger-adds-culture-sport-migrant-outreach-campaign-agadez

https://www.infomigrants.net/en/post/20790/sports-center-for-migrants-inaugurated-in-niger

https://www.unhcr.org/us/media/unhcr-sport-strategy-more-game

The Tuareg Struggle: Climate, Conflict, and Cultural Loss

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By Manvitha Prasad Kathula

The Tuareg are a nomadic Berber people who have roamed the vast Sahara Desert for centuries, known for their resilience, rich culture, and distinct identity. They inhabit areas across Mali, Niger, Algeria, Libya, and Burkina Faso. Their society is typically feudal and has a matrilineal system of inheritance. With a population of around 1 to 1.5 million, they predominantly practice Islam.

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tuareg_area.png

Adapted to the harsh desert climate, the Tuareg lead a lifestyle centered on livestock herding and trade. They live in camps of 50 to 150 individuals, residing in tents made from wooden poles covered with red-dyed goat hide. In the rainy season, they relocate every three to four days to find lush pastures for their livestock. During the dry season, they frequently move in search of water but tend to remain within their ancestral home territory, land inherited through generations.

The Tuareg speak Tamasheq, a language closely tied to North African nomadic traditions, and use Tifinar, an ancient script related to Libyan writing, for literacy. They are known for their art, which primarily includes metalwork, such as silver jewelry, leatherwork for items like boxes and camel saddles, and intricate woodworking. Music is also very important to the Tuareg, and their traditional instruments include the anzad(a bowed, one-stringed lute) and the tende drum.

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Amulet_necklace,_Tuareg_peoples,_Algeria,_Niger,_or_Mali,_20th_century,_brass,_copper,_tin,_leather_-_Fernbank_Museum_of_Natural_History_-_DSC00105.JPG

Despite their rich cultural heritage, the “Blue People of the Sahara” face significant challenges in the modern world that threaten their traditional way of life.

​​

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tuareg_-_In_Rissani_Morocco_ca._2008.JPG

Political Instability and Conflict

The Tuareg people in Mali and Niger have long faced challenges due to political instability, as they seek greater autonomy and control over their cultural lands. Their demands for self-governance have led to repeated tensions with central governments, often resulting in violent clashes and military crackdowns. This conflict has displaced many Tuareg communities, disrupting their traditional, nomadic way of life. Additionally, extremist groups in the Sahel region create further insecurity, making it difficult for the Tuareg to move freely across the desert.

Climate Change and Environmental Pressures

Rising temperatures, severe drought, and desertification threaten essential resources like water, grazing land, and livestock, which are central to Tuareg livelihood. As a result, many Tuareg are forced to migrate to cities, seeking alternative ways to support themselves. This shift disrupts their traditional culture and community structure, as urban life does not support the nomadic practices central to Tuareg identity. Environmental pressures thus make it increasingly difficult for the Tuareg to sustain their way of life.

Economic Hardships and Marginalization

Historically, the Tuareg have been excluded from political and economic power, which has led to limited access to basic services like education, healthcare, and employment. Most Tuareg communities live in remote and underdeveloped areas, far from the economic centers of the country. In some cases, Tuareg families are forced to move to urban areas in search of work. However, even in cities, they often face discrimination and struggle to find stable, well-paying jobs. Without the education or skills that are in demand in the modern economy, many Tuareg find themselves working in low-paying, informal jobs or unable to secure employment at all.

Cultural Erosion

As traditional nomadic lifestyles become increasingly difficult due to climate change, political instability, and economic hardships. This shift disrupts their cultural practices, such as herding, trading, and the passing down of oral traditions. In cities, Tuareg people are exposed to different ways of life, which often leads to younger generations moving away from traditional values, language, and customs. The rise of modern education and technology also presents challenges. While these developments bring new opportunities, they can sometimes clash with Tuareg traditions.

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Esprit_nomade.JPG

Despite the challenges of climate change, political instability, and cultural erosion, the Tuareg people are finding ways to adapt and preserve their heritage. They are preserving their language and traditions through education and cultural festivals. With help from groups like the World Monuments Fund and Wells Bring Hope, they are improving access to water and finding better ways to farm in the desert. Efforts to build peace and work with governments are also helping the Tuareg secure more rights and stability for their communities

Sources

https://africa.si.edu/exhibits/tuareg/who.html

https://hir.harvard.edu/desert-blues

https://www.migrationpolicy.org/article/tuareg-migration-critical-component-crisis-sahelhttps://bridgesfrombamako.com/2013/02/25/understanding-malis-tuareg-problem/

How Niger’s Political Landscape is Evolving to Address the Climate Crisis

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By Job Bolloh

Once a beacon of a vibrant cultural heritage, Niger now grapples with existential challenges that are threatening to dim its light. In the midst of political and security challenges, including worsening climate impacts, Niger is pushing forward with climate resilience initiatives to protect its agriculture-dependent population from climate-related food insecurity and resource scarcity. However, political stability and availability of resources remain key factors for success. 

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Camels grazing in Niger’s arid landscape symbolize the nation’s reliance on livestock with worsening droughts due to climate change. Source: onmyeye1

The political architecture in Niger is defined by challenges related to security, governance, and frequent military coups, the last one occurring in 2023. The government has struggled with insecurity from insurgent groups, particularly in areas bordering Mali, Burkina Faso, and Nigeria. Despite the challenges, Niger’s government has demonstrated its commitment to economic and social development, though implementation has been limited by political instability and limited resources. 

Meanwhile, the Sahel region is experiencing rapid temperature rise, 1.5 times faster than other parts of the planet. If nothing is done, experts predict that temperatures in the region will rise by three to six degrees by 2100, threatening food security, intensifying water scarcity, and worsening conflicts and humanitarian crises. 

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Incessant droughts continue to dry up water sources across the Sahel. Source: Berit Burton

Almost all of Niger’s population is reliant on agriculture, yet climate variability limits agricultural production, mostly affecting small-scale farmers. In response, Niger has implemented policies and initiatives aimed at addressing climate-related issues, often with support from international organizations. These key policies and actions include:

National Adaptation Plan (NAP)

The key mandate of the NAP is to ensure resilience to climate impacts because it recognizes that climate change is one of the major causes of poverty and food insecurity. The current NAP prioritizes wetlands, forestry, transport, health, and livestock sectors. 

Kids in Garden_reduced

Children in Niger proudly display fresh green vegetables from their community garden, an initiative supporting food security and resilience against climate change impact

The plan stresses developing pastoral areas and improving animal feed banks, crucial during droughts when animal fodder is limited. It highlights actions that should be taken to train medical staff and healthcare personnel to deal with climatic diseases such as malaria, malnutrition, and meningitis. The NAP also stresses gender considerations, calling for increasing women’s ownership of cattle, which can be a form of savings and is important for increasing households’ economic resilience.  

Climate Smart Agriculture

The “Nigeriens Nourishing Nigeriens” (3N) initiative recognizes that the country has a fast-growing population with an increased demand for food. Thus, it aims to fight poverty and hunger while strengthening herders’ and farmers’ resilience to climate change. 

Thousands of Nigerien farmers have already benefited from the distribution of drought-resistant seeds, livestock feed, and fertilizers, as well as other sustainable land management practices and coaching. Climate Smart Agriculture Support Project (PASEC) has managed to pilot innovative farming techniques enabling the rehabilitation of degraded land.

Data-driven Energy Transition

Niger recognizes that energy is both an issue of climate action and national development. Generally, the country has low energy consumption, but this energy is derived from fossil fuels, which leads to the overexploitation of wood resources and an increase in greenhouse emissions. Niger relies on thermal power plants and imports the remainder from Nigeria. However, only 20 percent of its population has access to electricity.

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Deforestation is a huge problem in Niger as people use wood as the main source of domestic energy. Source: Canadian Foodgrains Bank

The government recognizes that data is a powerful tool for helping Niger realize its climate development objectives. Energy data is used to direct government action, monitor progress against national objectives, analyze the effectiveness of policies, and ultimately attract crucial investments.

Niger’s resilience to climate challenges is structured on adaptive policies such as the NAP, 3N initiatives, and data-driven energy approaches. However, these efforts can only be sustained through political stability, availability of resources, and international support amidst severe climate and security threats. 

Sources

https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/feature/2021/10/20/this-is-how-niger-is-battling-climate-change

https://www.preventionweb.net/news/nigers-national-adaptation-plan-presents-its-path-climate-resilience

https://projects.worldbank.org/en/projects-operations/project-detail/P125669

Why Water Matters More Than You Think

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By Savira Oktari

Water it’s not just the essence of life, it’s the key to unlocking human potential. Yet, in a world where many of us take clean water for granted, its true value often goes unrecognized. The impact of water extends far beyond quenching thirst to playing a crucial role in global health, education, gender equality, and economic development.
Imagine walking six hours every day just to collect water – water that might make you sick. For millions in Niger, this isn’t imagination; it’s reality. Clean water, however, transcends mere survival or disease prevention. It acts as a hidden powerhouse, silently shaping the future of entire communities.

Let’s examine some startling facts:

  • Globally, 1 in 4 people lack access to safely managed drinking water. In Niger, only 50% of the population has access to basic drinking water services.
  • The average person in rural Niger uses just 5-10 liters of water per day, compared to 300-380 liters used daily by the average American.

These facts barely scratch the surface of water’s profound impact. In Niger and beyond, clean water isn’t just about survival – it’s a catalyst for change that touches every aspect of life.

Let’s dive deeper into why water matters more than you might think, exploring its surprising connections to health, education, gender equality, and economic development.

Health is the foundation of everything

Clean water is the cornerstone of good health. In Niger, waterborne diseases are a leading cause of death, especially among children. By providing access to clean water, we can reduce the incidence of diseases like cholera and dysentery, improve sanitation and hygiene practices, and enhance nutrition as clean water is used for cooking and growing food.

Education unlocks potential

When children, especially girls, don’t have to spend hours fetching water, school attendance rates soar. With more time to study and less time spent sick, academic performance improves. Clean water at schools means better hygiene, keeping more students healthy and in class.

Women’s empowerment breaks the cycle

In Niger, women and girls bear the primary responsibility for water collection, often spending up to 6 hours a day. By bringing clean water closer to home, women gain time for education, and income-generating activities, while girls can attend school regularly, helping break the cycle of poverty.

Economic developments lift all

Access to clean water can kickstart economic growth through improved agriculture, time saved for small business, and reduced healthcare costs. When we invest in water, we invest in the economic future of entire communities.

Every drop counts

A single water source can transform a village. Clean water isn’t just about survival – it’s about thriving. It’s about health, education, empowerment, and economic growth. It’s about giving people the foundation they need to build better lives.

When it comes to clean water, the impact goes far deeper than the wells that Wells Bring Hope drills. Safe accessible water touches every aspect of life, creating ripples of change that can transform entire communities. So the next time you turn on your tap, take a moment to appreciate not just the water, but all the opportunities it represents.
Together, we can make every drop count.

Sources

Progress on household drinking water, sanitation and hygiene 2000-2020.

 Niger: Water, Sanitation and Hygiene.

 Summary Progress Update 2021: SDG 6 — water and sanitation for all.

 Niger Country Program Information.

Estimated Water Use in the United States in 2015.

 Drinking-water Fact Sheet.

Rising Temperatures and Food Security: Addressing the Agricultural Crisis in the Sahel

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By Tawanda Mukwekwezeke

Over the past century, Earth has experienced a significant rise in global temperatures, driven largely by human activity and environmental changes. The pace of warming has quickened dramatically in recent decades, with 2023 marking a new high as the warmest year on record, being 2.12°F above the 20th-century average. This remarkable heat reflects the broader trend of rising temperatures, which have had widespread effects on ecosystems, weather patterns, and global health. The last decade has seen the warmest years in recorded history, emphasizing the urgency of addressing climate change. These shifts highlight the growing challenges we face in managing the impacts of a rapidly warming planet.

Climate change affects people’s lives in poor regions like Niger, as the availability of usable land goes down and water sources become less reliable. Niger is located in the middle of the Sahel, and climate change is even worse in this area, where the temperatures are rising 1.5 times faster than in any other place.

Additionally, climate change has exacerbated flooding during Niger’s rainy season, which usually lasts from May to October. This year’s floods are especially devasting. Several hundred Nigeriens have died and more than 350,000 people have been displaced. Crops have been ruined and livestock have died.

 Climate change has a particularly severe impact on agriculture in Niger. Over 80% of Nigeriens depend on agriculture for their livelihood—a livelihood that is being severely threatened by climate change. An arid country to begin with, Niger is far from ideal for raising crops or livestock. And now it’s facing the additional challenges that climate change brings about, such as:

  •    Soaring temperatures
  •     Erratic rainfall patterns which lead to increased drought and flooding
  •     Drying of rivers and other water sources
  •     Poor soil quality due to erosion

Niger Is Resilient

Fortunately, even with all the difficulties intensified by climate change, Niger’s people are resilient and are constantly working to stay ahead of the potentially devastating effects of global warming. Local community organizations plus various nonprofit groups are strengthening Niger’s resilience in a number of ways:

Climate Smart Agriculture Practices: Utilizing drought resistant seeds and fertilizers, plus implementing micro-irrigation and solar-powered drip irrigation systems that increase crop return by up to 40% while reducing water use.

Creating Food Stores: Filling warehouses with non-perishables like cereals and grains and building small dairy processing facilities so communities have more resources when food is scarce.

Diversifying Income: Training people, especially women, to run small businesses such as creating and selling crafts or trading small goods at market to decrease reliance on agricultural income.

Education/Empowerment: teaching Nigeriens about climate smart practices and providing the resources needed to fight climate change.

Access to Clean Water: Wells Bring Hope and others drill wells to provide access to clean water for drinking and hygiene.

Nigeriens continue to learn and implement climate smart practices, helping to build a brighter future for themselves. By working together to fight climate change, Nigerien communities provide an inspiring example of how progress can be achieved.

Sources

https://www.climate.gov/news-features/understanding-climate/climate-change-global-temperature

https://www.epa.gov/watersense/microirrigation#:~:text=Microirrigation%20is%20a%20low%2Dpressure,the%20root%20zone%20of%20plants

https://www.care-international.org/news/niger-devastating-floods-displace-over-350000-people