Things You Need to Know About Republic of Niger

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Niger: A Nation Grappling with Challenges and Rich in Mineral and Cultural Heritage

Niger is located in West Africa. Its capital is Niamey. Independence Day in the Republic of Niger is commemorated on 3 August, marking the nation's independence from France in 1960.

News of an "attempted coup" in Niger on Wednesday sent shockwaves across the West African nation. 

Reports indicated that the presidential guards had confined President Mohamed Bazoum in the presidential palace in the capital Niamey. 

The attempted coup has been strongly condemned by the African Union, regional bloc ECOWAS, and the European Union, highlighting the rejection of such actions in today's society. 

As the country faces yet another period of unrest, here are five key aspects that shed light on Niger's complex reality: 

Chronic Political Volatility:

Niger has experienced chronic political instability since gaining independence from France in 1960. 

Throughout its history, the country has witnessed four coups, with the most recent one in July 2023 that toppled the president Mohamed Bazoum. 

However, a significant milestone was achieved in 2021 when the country experienced its first-ever democratic transition of power. 

Mohamed Bazoum assumed the presidency after his predecessor, Mahamadou Issoufou, voluntarily stepped down. 

Despite this progress, the recent events have once again raised concerns about the country's political landscape. 

Widespread Poverty:

Niger ranks among the world's poorest nations, grappling with high levels of poverty. 

With half of its 26.2 million population living in poverty, the country faces severe economic challenges. 

The situation is exacerbated by the world's highest birth rate, with 6.8 children per woman in 2021. 

The encroaching desert and frequent droughts further contribute to widespread hunger, as arable land is lost to desertification. 

Niger is part of the ambitious Great Green Wall project, aimed at creating an 8,000-kilometer corridor of trees and shrubs across Africa to combat desertification. 

Twin Insurgencies and Counter-terrorism Efforts:

Niger, like its Sahel neighbors Mali and Burkina Faso, grapples with a persistent insurgency that started in Mali in 2012 and has spread across porous borders. 

The fight against both Al-Qaeda and Islamic-State affiliated insurgents has come perilously close to the capital, with attacks occurring within 100 kilometers of Niamey. 

As an ally of the United States, Niger plays a crucial role in supporting Western anti-terrorism operations in the region. 

France, after facing expulsion from Mali and Burkina Faso, has stationed 1,500 counter-terrorism troops in Niger. 

Resource Richness:

Niger boasts significant deposits of uranium, a vital component in the nuclear industry. 

France, which relies heavily on nuclear power, has been mining uranium in northern Niger for over half a century. 

The country also produces gold and oil on a smaller scale. Despite these valuable resources, much of Niger's population relies on agriculture for their livelihoods. 

Cultural Heritage:

Northeast Niger is home to remarkable towns known as "ksars," which are forts made of salt and clay perched on rocks above the Sahara. 

These ancient structures, including the Djado ksars, are characterized by crenellated walls, watchtowers, passages, and wells. 

Their origins remain a captivating mystery, and Niger is seeking UN World Heritage Status for the site to preserve and promote its unique cultural heritage. 

As Niger faces this latest challenge in its journey, the country's rich history, diverse landscapes, and cultural heritage continue to paint a multifaceted portrait. 

The attempted coup reminds the world of the nation's fragility and the importance of supporting its efforts to build lasting stability and prosperity for its people. 

It is essential for the international community to rally behind Niger and provide the necessary assistance to address the pressing economic, security, and governance issues that confront the nation.

(Courtesy: TRT)