Niger

Niger is consistently ranked at or near the bottom of the UN Human Development Index. Although the country has various mineral resources, including uranium, oil and gold, a weak legal system and poor infrastructure restricts productivity in this area. Niger has suffered years of political instability, but the current president is democratically elected and is working with the international community to promote economic growth and development. Niger has a very high fertility rate, averaging more than seven births per woman in 2010, high child mortality, and low rates of formal education. The vast majority of Nigeriens rely on subsistence agriculture, and the region’s frequent droughts lead to food shortages. Violence and insecurity further exacerbate these development challenges.

In Niger, USAID focuses on addressing malnutrition and food insecurity as well as strengthening the country’s democratic institutions.