Turning governance challenges into opportunities: how reforms are transforming lives in Niger

Every parent dreams of seeing their children thrive and succeed. To achieve this, children must have access to basic social services like healthcare and education. Yet in rural Niger, these services often remain out of reach, leaving families vulnerable. Parents in remote villages struggle daily to keep their children healthy and in school. However, recent reforms in the country are giving hope to these families. With improved access to vaccines and essential medicines, fewer shortages are reported in local pharmacies—a tangible sign of how better governance is turning challenges into opportunities for citizens of Niger.

A Country Facing Complex Challenges

Located in the heart of the Sahel, Niger spans 1.267 million square kilometers, making it the largest country in West Africa. Yet the landlocked country grapples with profound difficulties. It ranks among the lowest globally in access to basic services. These challenges are further exacerbated by security threats, climate change, pandemics, and political instability. With one of the world’s fastest-growing populations and with 80% of its citizens living in rural areas, Niger faces the immense challenge of delivering essential social services to its citizens.

The situation worsened in July 2023, when a coup led to a suspension of international aid, straining the government’s ability to fund vital services. Yet, Niger remains steadfast in its efforts to improve governance and public services, finding innovative ways to turn obstacles into progress.

Reforming Public Finances for Resilience

In response to these persistent challenges, Niger has initiated a series of public finance reforms. In 2020, the government undertook a comprehensive review of its financial management systems, leading to the 2021-2025 reform strategy.

Supported by the World Bank, the Niger Public Sector Management for Resilience and Service Delivery Program was launched in 2022, backed by $191.5 million in funding. This initiative focuses on enhancing public spending efficiency and human resource management, particularly in health and education. The goal is to ensure that essential goods, such as vaccines, medicines, and school supplies, reach those who need them most.

Even after the July 2023 coup, when international borders closed and aid was suspended, Niger adapted by prioritizing domestic tax collection. This approach ensured that civil servants were paid, and essential public services continued despite reduced trade and customs revenue.

Collaboration Driving Sustainable Progress

The success of these reforms rests on collaboration among the government, international partners, and civil society. Flexibility and capacity building have been key to adapting projects to meet evolving needs, ensuring steady progress.

Impact on Citizens: Positive Results

The results of these reforms are clear and impactful. In healthcare, over 11 million vaccine doses were distributed in 2023, benefitting more than 1 million children and 1.3 million pregnant women. Stock shortages of essential medicines decreased from 16 days in 2021 to just 9 days by the end of 2023.

In education, timely budgetary allocations enabled the Ministry of Education to procure school supplies worth 3.4 billion CFA francs ($5.4 million) for rural schools. This effort significantly reduced the disparity in resources between urban and rural schools, giving more children the tools they need to succeed.

Resilience as a Model for Change

While much work remains, Niger’s experience underscores the importance of sustained reforms and collaborative partnerships. By learning from successes and setbacks, the government and its partners can ensure continued progress.

By prioritizing citizens' needs and enhancing public finance management, Niger’s resilience showcases how strategic governance, tailored to local needs, can overcome formidable challenges. The country’s efforts offer hope to its people and present a valuable model for other nations confronting similar struggles.