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Who are the people?

Niger is a country made up of various peoples, subcultures, and languages. While French is the official language, more than 20 languages are spoken among its population of more than 13 million. Most people practice Islam, though the number of Christians is growing.

Only 14 percent of Niger’s people are functionally literate, a significant factor in the poverty that is so prevalent. Educational opportunities are limited for many boys and girls. Without good schooling, it will be extremely difficult for these children to break free from the cycle of poverty.

Approximately 90 percent of the country’s labor force engages in agriculture by growing peas, cotton, peanuts, rice, and other crops. In the communities where World Vision is working, many families earn their living as subsistence farmers and struggle to produce enough food to feed their children. These families rarely have anything left to sell for income that might provide adequate clothing or shelter. Their primary focus is mere survival.

The people of Niger are in great need of the life-changing hope that child sponsorship can bring to their families and communities.

What is it like to live there?

Located in West Africa’s Sahara region, Niger is four-fifths the size of Alaska. Though most of its land is fairly dry and unproductive, the Niger River keeps the southwest area of the country quite fertile.


 
Country Statistics 
Population14.0 million
Land Mass489,072 sq. miles
Life Expectancy44 years
Infant Mortality Rate150 / 1,000
Literacy Rate29%
School Enrollment30%
Access to Safe Water46%
Average Annual Income (GNI per capita)US$240
 
 
Only 46 percent of Nigeriens have access to clean water, and just 12 percent have adequate sanitation. These numbers mean many children are at risk for disease. Through sponsorship, World Vision is working with the neediest of families to improve conditions and ensure access to safe water.

While the mining of uranium and other minerals has brought some economic development to the country, the majority of families are still living in poverty. Parents struggle to meet their children’s most basic needs.

World Vision is working alongside communities to help parents, especially women, launch and operate small businesses to increase family incomes. This improves living conditions, increases health, and provides a better education for many.

Because the number of Christians is relatively small, some believers feel isolated and are in need of prayer that their churches thrive and fellowship is strong.

How You Can Pray for Your Sponsored Child
  • Pray that your sponsored child might respond to God’s love and grace.
  • Ask God to guide your sponsored child as he or she learns, grows, and moves toward a future full of hope and possibilities.
  • Pray for God to protect the health of your sponsored child and his or her family.
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