Title: The disastrous consequences of the coup d’état in Niger: international aid suspended
Introduction :
The coup that occurred in Niger two and a half months ago continues to wreak havoc. After the suspension of development aid by the World Bank and several European countries, it is the turn of the United States to announce their withdrawal. This decision represents a considerable loss of income for the country, with disastrous consequences on the economy and infrastructure projects. Let’s take a closer look at the impacts of this suspension on Niger.
Alarming figures:
According to a recent report from the World Bank, nearly $1.2 billion will not be paid to Niger this year, or more than 6% of the country’s GDP. European countries, such as France, Germany, Luxembourg and the European Union, were to pay $375 million. Until the coup, they had already paid 28% of this sum. The United States, for its part, had planned to disburse $442 million in economic aid, part of which remains unknown. Since the qualification of the coup by the US State Department, all payments must be suspended, with the exception of humanitarian aid for the population.
An impact on infrastructure projects:
In addition to development aid, the World Bank and the IMF also financially supported the Niamey regime to the tune of several hundred million dollars. However, due to the suspension of this aid, only a few tens of millions could be paid before the coup. This situation represents a hard blow for Niger, which was largely dependent on international aid to meet its budget and carry out its infrastructure projects. For example, in the electricity sector, delays in infrastructure projects will hamper access to affordable and reliable electricity, thereby impacting the population and private investment. Many water access and hydroelectric dam projects are also threatened, endangering the region’s agriculture and food security.
Alarming consequences on the population:
In addition to the economic consequences, the absence of international aid has a direct impact on the Nigerien population. Up to two million children could be out of school this year, including 800,000 girls, creating a gap in the country’s education. In addition, the sanctions imposed by ECOWAS, such as the closure of borders and the cessation of trade, worsen food insecurity. The World Bank estimates that 700,000 more people will fall into extreme poverty this year in Niger.
Conclusion :
The coup d’état in Niger has had disastrous consequences on the country’s economy and the daily lives of its population.. The suspension of development aid by the World Bank, European countries and the United States represents a considerable shortfall for Niger, with repercussions on infrastructure projects, education and food insecurity. It is important that the international community finds solutions to support Niger and its population during this critical period.