Humanitarian and environmental crisis in Niger following devastating floods

Niger, a Sahelian country already affected by drought and food insecurity, faces a rainy season every year. However, in 2024, this precipitation has proven to be particularly destructive, leading to unusually severe flooding.

The consequences of these floods are severe: dozens of people have been killed, drowned or buried under the rubble of their homes. Thousands more have been displaced and have lost everything they owned. Infrastructure such as roads, bridges and power grids has been severely damaged.

More vulnerable to flooding

On Friday, the Humanitarian Action and Disaster Management At least 94 people have been reported dead. Aïssa Lawan Wandarma added at a press conference that more than 137,000 people have been affected by floods due to heavy rains in Niger since June. The 2022 rainy season was particularly deadly, killing 195 people and 400,000 people.

The increase in extreme weather events, directly linked to climate change, is one of the main factors. Rapid urban development, especially in Niamey, has led to uncontrolled urbanization and construction in dangerous areas. Deforestation and poor agricultural practices have led to soil erosion and increased vulnerability to waterlogging. flood.

Conditions that favor the spread of disease

The entire territory of Niger was affected, but certain regions such as Maradi, Zinder and Tahoua were particularly affected. Even the capital, Niamey, was not spared. The floods created favorable conditions Disease transmission Such diseases include malaria, schistosomiasis and cholera. Displaced people living in precarious conditions are particularly vulnerable.

Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy Nigerwhich has been hit hard. Crops have been destroyed and livestock have died, putting the food security of thousands of people at risk. The Nigerien authorities, with the support of the international community, have taken emergency measures to provide relief to the victims, distribute food and medical assistance, and start reconstruction operations.