U.S. Embassy Diplomacy Efforts in Niger:

Building on Our Partnership

ne.usembassy.gov

Through diplomacy, the United States maintains a strong relationship with the Republic of Niger.  Our partnership began with the birth of Niger in the 1960s, was memorialized by the construction of Niamey’s John F. Kennedy Bridge in the 1970s, nurtured through hundreds of programs throughout the decades, and continues to the present day.  The United States – as represented by our diplomats and diplomatic programs – touches Nigeriens from all walks of life.  We are proud to promote our shared democratic values while working toward a more secure and thriving future. You’ll find our diplomats working in:

Economic Affairs

The Economic Affairs Section safeguards and promotes economic and trade partnerships between the U.S. and Niger, as well as the West African region.  The section is responsible for a range of issues including commerce, economic development, public finance, money and banking, energy, foreign direct investment, telecommunications, and transportation.  The section also works to enhance market access to the U.S. for Niger and many other Sub-Saharan African countries through the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).

Political Affairs

The Political Affairs Section builds cooperative relationships with officials, parliamentarians, politicians, academic institutions, civil society leaders, and foreign diplomats. It also collaborates with civil society and other organizations and provides self-help grants to individuals and groups working to improve Niger’s future.  Additionally, Political Affairs issues the congressionally mandated Country Report on Human Rights, the Trafficking in Persons Report, and the International Religious Freedom Report, all of which are available on our Embassy website (ne.usembassy.gov).

Public Affairs

Public Affairs is involved in U.S. Embassy outreach with many stakeholders.  The section works with international, U.S., and Nigerien media to ensure accurate reporting on issues relating to the U.S. and Niger.  Additionally, the staff manages exchange opportunities for Nigerien students, academics, and leaders through programs such as Fulbright, International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), and Young African Leadership Initiative (YALI).  Moreover, the section engages with the Nigerien public through cultural, women’s and youth programs, including soccer and other sports programs, music festivals, training in film and social media, and more.

Consular Affairs

The Consular Affairs section provides three primary types of service.  Staff issues non-immigrant visas to qualifying individuals seeking to enter the United States for temporary official business or tourism travel.  Additionally, immigrant visas are issued for applicants eligible to immigrate to the United States.  The section also assists American citizens living abroad by processing passport applications, issuing emergency passports, providing notarial services, handling reports of birth, adoption, and death abroad, and providing emergency services for Americans in distress.

Our Partnerships

To broaden our efforts, we also collaborate with other diplomats and non-governmental organizations to help the Nigerien people.  Among our partners are the European Union, other foreign embassies, the United Nations, Care International, Save the Children, PeaceTech, and Search for Common Ground, to name a few.  In addition to our work with the Government of Niger, we partner with non-governmental organizations, including La Maison de la Presse, Conseil National de la Jeunesse, SAFEM, and more.

Working Hand-in-Hand with U.S. Development and Defense Efforts

The Embassy’s diplomacy teams complement colleagues engaged in helping effect positive change through development and defense.  Our U.S. military and other defense teams partner with Nigerien military and police throughout the country.  USAID invests nearly $200 million annually to address food security, humanitarian aid, health, human rights, crisis intervention and education in Niger, and the five-year $437 million Millennium Challenge Compact was recently launched to reduce poverty and significantly increase economic opportunities for Nigeriens.

By the Numbers

•          Since 2007, U.S. exchanges have included nearly 200 International Visitor Leadership Program participants, 57 Nelson Mandela Fellows, 55 Fulbright visiting students, nine Fulbright African Scholars, eight Hubert Humphrey Fellows, and 23 Sports Visitor participants.

•          There are more than 2,000 young adults participating in Niger’s expansive Young African Leadership Initiative (YALI) network.

•          Since 2007, the Embassy has managed $740,000 in small grants for improving opportunities for women and youth, and $175,000 via the Julia Taft for Refugee Assistance program.

•          Two Nigeriens, Major Aichatou Issaka Ousmane (2017) and Hadizatou Mani (2009), have been awarded the Department of State’s prestigious Women of Courage Award.

•          Six hundred Nigeriens work in a wide range of roles within the U.S. Embassy, and more than 500 are helped construct our new Embassy building.

•          There are four American Spaces in Niamey, Zinder, Agadez, and Maradi.  All provide cultural and educational programs and access to books, journals, and the Internet.

DEMOCRACY, RIGHTS, GOVERNANCE & CONFLICT (PDF 241KB)
NIGER FACT SHEET
The 2020-2021 local and national elections were the third time since 2011 that citizens democratically
elected new leaders, and the first time that power passed peacefully via elections from one civilian
president to the next. However, Niger is facing widespread insecurity and is confronting persistent
threats from violent extremist (VE) groups, including Al-Qaida-affiliated Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam
wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) in the tri-border area of Niger,
Mali, and Burkina Faso, and Boko Haram in the south-eastern Diffa region. Weak governance, and lack of
services, economic opportunities, and justice increase community-based conflicts and increase
vulnerability to VE recruitment. Women, youth and marginalized populations are often
disproportionately affected.
OUR WORK
Since Niger’s return to democratic rule in 2011, the United States has supported efforts to improve
participatory democratic governance, increase transparency, fight corruption, expand civil liberties, and
build Nigeriens’ resilience to violent extremism. In addition to supporting democratic values, practices,
and institutions, USAID is helping the Nigerien government to provide quality public services, answer
citizens’ needs and concerns, and improve access to justice and human rights protection. It is also
supporting civil society efforts to accelerate the pace of ongoing reforms, reduce conflicts in their
communities and advance Women, Peace, Security initiatives.
DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTIONS PROVIDE FOR FREE AND FAIR ELECTIONS
Ahead of the 2020-2021 local, parliamentary and presidential elections, USAID supported preparations
for a peaceful democratic transition, including political consensus on a revised electoral code and
procedures, capacity building of political parties, voter registration and education, and prevention of
electoral electoral violence. It is supporting implementation of post elections strategic priorities, capacity
building for the national election commission and increased awareness among political parties, civil
society organizations and citizens on electoral reforms and the need for peaceful and inclusive elections.
GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS ARE MORE TRANSPARENT, ACCOUNTABLE, AND RESPONSIVE TO CITIZEN NEEDS
To improve people’s and communities’ ability to enact change and demand more responsive governance,
USAID supports citizen mobilization, advocacy, and dialogue with the government. This includes support
for transfer of planning, resource allocation, and management responsibilities to the local government
levels to better reach citizens. To ensure that policies and reforms are inclusive and reflect the needs of
all Nigeriens, USAID supports non-governmental actors to better communicate their priorities. It is also
assisting local governments to be more resilient, improve service delivery and better manage natural
resources through participatory development planning. USAID is expanding women’s participation in
local decision-making and gender-responsive service delivery.
RESPECT FOR JUSTICE, FUNDAMENTAL HUMAN RIGHTS, AND CIVIL LIBERTIES
USAID is helping the people of Niger to know their rights and have better access to justice. This
includes engagement with traditional conflict mediation mechanisms and the formal justice system, to
allow citizens and communities to peacefully resolve conflicts, settle long-standing disputes or address
human rights violations. Especially in areas prone to violent extremism, this is critical to slow the spread
of radicalism and violent conflicts.
COLLABORATION TO REDUCE VULNERABILITY TO VIOLENT EXTREMISM
With a view to improving the security of communities in areas affected by conflict, USAID brings
together community leaders, government and security forces, and citizens to increase their skills to
peacefully communicate and address ongoing sources of tension. At the national level, USAID assisted
the Nigerien government in developing its first national strategy for countering violent extremism and
developing solutions to improve security and reduce conflicts. To reduce the risk of Nigerien youth being
recruited by violent extremist groups, USAID is working with the government to increase youth
participation in the country’s political and economic life and ensure access to justice in conflict zones.
OUR GOALS
● Ensure more consensual, transparent and inclusive elections and political processes.
● Boost government transparency and responsiveness to citizen needs.
● Improve capacity of citizens and non-governmental actors to take collective action.
● Strengthen civic participation, specifically of youth, women and girls, in governance.
● Increase citizens’ access to justice, and respect for human rights.
● Address drivers of violent extremism and support community peace

Select List of USAID Democracy, Rights, Governance, and Conflict-Related Programming in Niger
Niger Access to Justice and Human Rights “Adalci,” Freedom House, Search for Common
Ground, American Bar Association (ABA ROLI), PACT
September 2020 – September 2024, $14,999,636
The Adalci project, which means “fairness” in the Hausa language, was designed to reduce people’s
vulnerability to violent extremism. It is bolstering pathways to justice with the goal of reducing
vulnerability to violent extremism (VE) by strengthening tools to address core grievances that drive
extremism in Niger. Objectives include 1) improved capacity of customary and other local conflict
mediation mechanisms in VE-prone target areas to address grievances and resolve disputes; 2)
Populations in VE-prone areas are empowered to navigate and access the formal justice system to
resolve their disputes or assert their rights; and 3) Government of Niger and civil society organizations
(CSOs) have increased capacity to address VE-related human rights violations committed by both state
and non-state actors. Geographic areas of activities include Diffa (Diffa, Nguigmi, Toumour, and
Gueskerou), Tillaberi (Sakouara, Abala, Damana and Simiri) and Tahoua (Tebaram and Takanamat)
regions.
Niger Electoral Support Activity to Promote a Peaceful Democratic Transition through
Free, Transparent and Inclusive Elections (NESA), Consortium for Elections and Political Process
Strengthening (CEPPS) Global Elections and Political Transitions, National Democratic Institute (NDI)
and the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES)
September 2018 – November 2022, $4,000,000
NESA supported dialogue between political leaders and civic activists on Niger’s electoral framework
ahead of the 2020-2021 elections, increasing awareness among political parties, civil society organizations
and citizens on electoral reforms and the need for peaceful and inclusive elections. The activity also
supported Niger’s independent electoral commission (CENI) and relevant Government of Niger
institutions to conduct free and inclusive elections, and to effectively communicate election processes to
the Nigerien people. In the post electoral period NESA is working to solidify electoral reforms through
addressing technical and administrative weaknesses of CENI, and increasing capacity for first-time elected
officials and civic actors to engage in more effective citizen-centered legislative and political processes.
On Est Ensemble “We are Together” Youth-Led Community Cohesion, Search for Common
Ground, March 2020 – January 2023, $2,360,000
On Est Ensemble is strengthening youth’s resilience to violent extremism and promoting long-term
stability in the region by enabling youth engagement in local decision-making processes and increasing
incentives for youth economic engagement. On Est Ensemble is built on the premise that youth,
including young women, have the potential to be positive forces that drive community and regional
stability. he project is building the capacities of youth and key community stakeholders to positively
engage their peers around shared interests through innovative conflict prevention and mitigation efforts
and will connect grassroots efforts to build bridges between identity lines and formal youth structures at
the local and regional level. It is also increasing youth financial literacy and social entrepreneurship
capacities and highlighting the impact of youth-led income-generating efforts on peace and stability in
Tillabéri. It is building the capacity of over 150 youth in conflict transformation and social communication
and bringing young people representing the diverse local communities together for “youth innovation
camps,” to build trust between the group members, design community action plans, and publicize
positive examples of youth innovation. Geographic areas of activities include Ayorou, Abala, Banibangou,
Bankilaré, Sanam, Kollo and Say in the Tillaberi region.
Resilient Governance in Niger (RGN) “Jagoranci,” Counterpart International,
March 2021 – March 2026, $19,799,587
RGN is strengthening performance of local, state, and non-state institutions at the local government
(commune) level through interventions to improve performance as defined by the stakeholders
themselves, building local ownership, accountability, and improved incentives for change. RGN’s
objectives are: 1) Communal authorities, traditional leaders, and regional representatives of the
Government of Niger (GON) understand their respective local governance roles and responsibilities,
and engage in more effective intergovernmental communications and collaboration to address
community needs, especially those of women, youth, and other marginalized populations; 2) Communal
governments more accountably plan, manage and execute budgets, ensure provision of basic services,
and mobilize financial and human resources in support of locally-determined development priorities; and
3) Citizens and local civil actors know their rights, have greater agency to engage in communal
governance processes, and actively exercise these rights through institutionalized and ad-hoc
mechanisms. RGN is supporting municipalities that are also receiving support under USAID’s Resilience
Food Security Assistance (RFSA) projects in Maradi (Guidan Roumdji, Chadakori, Guidan sori, et Goura
Gouri) and Zinder (Dungass, Goushi, Dogo Dogo, Bandé, DamaKaram Takaya, Dantchio, Guidimundi,
Kwaya, Magaria, Malawa, Mazamni, Sassoumbroum, Wacha, Guidiguiri) regions, as well as in Tillabéri (Say,
Kouré et Kollo). Activities include flexible funding mechanisms to facilitate adaptation to a fluid
environment, test new innovations, scale up emerging best practices, and respond to crises.
Sahel Human Voice in Governance Activity (SHIGA), Financial Services Volunteers Corps
(FSVC), July 2019 – June 2022, $7,000,000
SHIGA’s goal is for Niger’s civil society to engage the government more effectively, and for key
government institutions to be more effective in their mandates and meet the needs of citizens. Main
objectives include 1) Civil society organizations (CSOs) more actively and effectively hold the
government accountable and build demand for targeted policy reforms and improved government
implementation; 2) Targeted government institutions are more accountable to citizens, and more
effective and transparent in their operations; and 3) Constructive engagement spaces between citizens,
civil society and the state to identify and implement targeted priority reforms are created and/or
strengthened. This includes intensive capacity-building and mentoring of target groups of CSOs working
on key themes. SHIGA currently has activities in Niamey, Zinder and Maradi.
CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION
USAID NIGER MISSION
Asta M. Zinbo
DRG/Conflict Office Director
Niamey, Niger
azinbo@usaid.gov

AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY NIGER FACT SHEET (PDF 640KB)

Niger regularly experiences low and variable rainfalls, land degradation,
deforestation, and desertification. Most Nigeriens depend on agriculture
for their livelihoods, and frequent floods, extended droughts, and
increasingly unpredictable rainfall patterns in the region often lead to
food, animal feed, and fodder shortages. The resulting chronic food
insecurity and a high prevalence of infectious diseases have led Niger to
record some of the highest malnutrition and mortality rates in the
world.
More than 47 percent of children under 5 years of age suffer from chronic malnutrition.
According to the United Nations World Food Program’s estimates, more than 1.9 million people in
Niger were affected by severe food insecurity in 2020. Another 1.5 million are estimated to be
chronically food insecure, and millions more experience periodic food shortages during the lean season.

OUR WORK
USAID agriculture and food security programs in Niger are designed to spur more opportunities for
employment, contribute to national food security and stability, and help people rise out of poverty and
effectively manage recurring shocks and stresses.
AGRICULTURE
USAID is supporting Niger’s agriculture sector with a focus on the most vulnerable. USAID is working
on several fronts: increased access to finance; more economic opportunities; improved natural
resources; increased farm production; and better access to nutritious foods.
In addition, USAID is working with farmer groups to improve the competitiveness and inclusiveness of
three value chains: cowpeas black-eyed peas), small ruminants (goats and sheep), and poultry.
FOOD SECURITY
USAID is reducing food insecurity in Niger through a combination of emergency humanitarian and
development assistance. USAID’s Bureau of Humanitarian Affairs, in collaboration with other
development activities under the RISE II project, form the core of the food security program in Niger.
USAID designed these projects in response to a pattern of repeated crises. These have been taking place
over the past several decades because local populations do not have the means to prevent, go through,
and recover from risks which are commonly referred to as shocks. Shock types vary but they typically
include natural catastrophes such as floods, droughts, and storms, or man-made crises such as political
unrest or violent extremism. One’s ability to prevent, go through, and rebound from shocks is called
resilience.
The RISE II project addresses the causes of people’s and communities’ chronic vulnerability to shocks by
increasing their resilience. This can be done by helping them develop more and better ways to make a
living, and improve their overall health and nutrition.
USAID NIGER AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY GOALS
• Reduced malnutrition in target areas
• Reduced vulnerability and need for humanitarian assistance utilizing climate smart agriculture
• Reduced food insecurity through increased food production and diversification, water resource
management and governance, and contribute to security generally through improved livelihood
opportunities for women and youth
• Improved productivity in the agriculture sector and livestock industries
• Increased representation of women and youth in food and nutrition activities at community level

USAID FACT SHEET: A GRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY IN NIGER | JANUARY 2022 | WWW.USAID.GOV

HEALTH HEALTH NIGER FACTSHEET 
In Niger, chronic food insecurity and infectious diseases have resulted in some of the highest rates of malnutrition and mortality in the world. More than 47 percent of children under 5 years of age are chronically undernourished, and the rates of acute malnutrition are well beyond the threshold for public health emergencies.
USAID programs focus on developing the capacity of government, civil society, and other important partners to improve family planning, nutrition and to mitigate infectious diseases, including malaria and emerging health threats.

OUR WORK
USAID’s programs focus on building the capacity of government, civil society, and various other national partners to improve maternal and child health with a particular emphasis on family planning, nutrition, and infection diseases.

ENHANCING RESILIENCE AND NUTRITION
The second phase of the USAID Resilience in the Sahel Enhanced (RISE-II) project contributes to improving the health, food security, and nutritional status of women and children under 5 years of age with a view to reducing the vulnerability of populations living in a situation of chronic and recurrent crises. The project also works to integrate family planning into programs that treat malnutrition and to strengthen the overall healthcare system.

MATERNAL HEALTH, CHILD HEALTH, FAMILY PLANNING
USAID’s goal for maternal and child health (MCH) and family planning (FP) is to increase people’s access and use of quality care and services. To this end USAID works with community health workers, care providers, and the Nigerien Ministry of Public Health to improve care quality and the availability of medical supplies. USAID also works with youth and religious leaders to address key barriers to care and share important information with the public. In addition, USAID supports the treatment and prevention of obstetric fistula, a debilitating childbirth injury that can leave women with constant incontinence, shame, ostracization, and chronic health problems. Through its resilience programs, USAID promotes safe spaces for young women where they can learn about nutrition as well as sexual and reproductive health with and from their peers.

MALARIA
Through the U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI), USAID and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are working to reduce malaria infection and death rates in the country. USAID supports Niger’s National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) to implement the national malaria control strategy. This support also includes help to improve the NMCP’s diagnostic and treatment capacities. Support is also provided to the National Office of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Products to improve stock management for medicine, rapid diagnostic tests, and bed nets. Other divisions within the Ministry of Public Health receive help to improve disease surveillance, testing, and treatment. To prevent and control the spread of the disease, PMI supports the routine distribution of bed nets, monitors their durability, tracks insecticide resistance, and supports seasonal chemoprevention activities with a focus on children under 5 years old.

INFECTIOUS DISEASES
USAID is supporting Nigerien pharmaceutical management systems to improve HIV commodity security (such as drugs and testing supplies) as part of a regional initiative that includes six countries in West and Central Africa. USAID also supports the Ministry of Health to eradicate neglected tropical diseases such as trachoma and lymphatic filariasis and to reinforce its capacity to detect and respond to emergent disease threats.

OUR GOALS
• Increased access to and availability of health and nutrition services
• Increased access to potable water and improved sanitation
• Improved health and nutritional practices
• Increased access to and utilization of maternal health, child health, and family planning services
• Strengthened capacity of health centers
• Strengthened primary health care services
• Reduced malaria infections and deaths
• Strengthened supply chains
• Strengthened health information system
• Improved data quality and use
• Increased capacity to detect and respond to emergent health threats
• Incorporate a youth and gender lens in program design and implementation

CONTACT
USAID MISSION IN NIGER
Christina Chappell,
Health Office Director
+227 8594 6052

USAID FACT SHEET: DRG IN NIGER | FEBRUARY 2021 | WWW.USAID.GOV
DEMOCRACY, HUMAN RIGHTS & GOVERNANCE GOVERNANCEGOVERNANCE GOVERNANCE NIGER FACTSHEET 

FACTSHEET NIGER FACTSHEET
The 2020-2021 local and national elections are the third time since 2011 that citizens are democratically electing new leaders, and that power will pass peacefully via elections from one president to the next. The elections are however taking place amid widespread insecurity. Niger faces persistent threats from foreign-based jihadist groups, including Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb and Boko Haram, as well as community-based conflicts.
OUR WORK
Since Niger’s return to democratic rule in 2011, the United States has been supporting efforts to improve governance, increase transparency, fight corruption, expand civil liberties, and build Nigeriens’ resilience to violent extremism. In addition to supporting democratic values, practices, and institutions USAID is helping the Nigerien government to: provide quality public services to its citizens; accelerate the pace of ongoing reform; and strengthen the ability of local governments to answer citizens needs and concerns.

DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTIONS PROVIDE FOR FREE AND FAIR ELECTIONS
Ahead of the 2020-2021 local, parliamentary, and presidential elections, USAID supported preparations for a peaceful democratic transition, expected to be the first-power handover from an elected civilian regime to another. USAID supported political consensus on a revised electoral code and procedures, capacity building of political parties, prevention of electoral disputes and or violence, voter education, as well as capacity building for the national election commission on administration and planning.

GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS ARE MORE TRANSPARENT, ACCOUNTABLE, AND RESPONSIVE TO CITIZEN NEEDS
To improve people’s and communities’ ability to enact change and demand more responsive governance, USAID focuses on citizen mobilization, advocacy, and dialogue with the government. USAID also works with government agencies to transfer planning, resource allocation, and management responsibilities to the local government levels. To ensure that policies and reforms are inclusive and reflect the needs of all Nigeriens, USAID supports non-governmental actors to better communicate their priorities. As part of its regional resilience strengthening program, USAID is assisting local governments to build and improve their disaster risk reduction and natural resource management capacities. USAID is expanding women’s participation in local decision-making. It also supports partnerships that can improve gender-responsive service delivery in areas affected by violence and insecurity.

RESPECT FOR JUSTICE, FUNDAMENTAL HUMAN RIGHTS, AND CIVIL LIBERTIES
USAID is helping the people of Niger to know their rights and have better access to justice. This includes engagement with customary conflict mediation mechanisms and the formal justice system to resolve disputes, allowing citizens and communities to peacefully resolve conflicts, settle long-standing grievances or address human rights violations. Especially in areas prone to violent extremism, this is critical to slow the spread of radicalism and violent conflicts.
COLLABORATION TO REDUCE VULNERABILITY TO VIOLENT EXTREMISM
With a view to improving the security of communities in areas affected by conflict, USAID brings together local influencers, opinion leaders, government security forces, and citizens. It then helps these varied actors to peacefully communicate and address ongoing sources of tension. At the national level, USAID assisted the Nigerien government in developing its first national strategy for countering violent extremism and developing solutions to improve security and reduce conflicts. To reduce the risk of Nigerien youth being recruited by violent extremist groups, USAID is working with the government to increase youth participation in the country’s political and economic life and ensure access to justice in conflict zones.

OUR GOALS
• Ensure more consensual, transparent, and inclusive elections and political processes
• Improved responsiveness of the government to citizen needs in priority sectors
• Support for governance reforms and cross-sectoral collaboration in advancing resilience
• Increased capacity of citizens and non-governmental actors to take collective action
• Increased civic participation, specifically of youth, women and girls, in community governance
• Addressing drivers of violent extremism and supporting community peace building.
CONTACT: Asta M. Zinbo, DRG/Conflict Office Director, Niamey, Niger, azinbo@usaid.gov

USAID/NIGER COUNTRY PROFILE | JANUARY 2021 | WWW.USAID.GOV
AGRICULTURE & FOOD SECURITYAGRICULTURE  FACTSHEET

Niger regularly experiences low and variable rainfalls, land degradation, deforestation, and desertification. Most Nigeriens depend on agriculture for their livelihoods, and frequent droughts in the region often lead to food shortages. The resulting chronic food insecurity and a high prevalence of infectious diseases have led Niger to record some of the highest malnutrition and mortality rates in the world.
More than 47 percent of children under 5 years of age suffer from chronic malnutrition. According to the United Nations World Food Program’s estimates, more than 1.9 million people in Niger were affected by severe food insecurity in 2020. Another 1.5 million are estimated to be chronically food insecure, and millions more experience periodic food shortages during the lean season.

OUR WORK
USAID food security programs in Niger are designed to spur more opportunities for employment, contribute to regional food security and stability, and help people rise out of extreme poverty and recover from recurring shocks.
Photo by Photo by Photo by Photo by Photo by Photo by Ezra MillsteinEzra MillsteinEzra MillsteinEzra MillsteinEzra MillsteinEzra Millstein/Mercy Corps/Mercy Corps/Mercy Corps/Mercy Corps/Mercy Corps/Mercy Corps/Mercy Corps
USAID/NIGER COUNTRY PROFILE | JANUARY 2021 | WWW.USAID.GOV

AGRICULTURE
USAID is supporting Niger’s agriculture sector with a focus on the most vulnerable. Under the
Resilience in the Sahel Enhanced (RISE II) program and other regional activities, USAID is working on
several fronts: increased access to credit; more economic opportunities; improved natural resource and
soil management; increased farming production; and better access to nutritious foods.
In addition, USAID is working with farmer groups to improve the competitiveness and inclusiveness of
three value chains: cowpeas (a type of bean similar to black-eyed peas), small ruminants (such goats and
sheep), and poultry.

FOOD SECURITY
USAID is reducing food insecurity in Niger through a combination of emergency humanitarian and
development assistance. USAID’s Bureau of Humanitarian Affairs, in collaboration with other
development activities under the RISE II project, form the core of the food security program in Niger.
USAID designed these projects in response to a pattern of repeated crises. These have been taking
place over the past several decades because local populations do not have the means to prevent, go
through, and recover from are commonly referred to as shocks. Shock types vary but they typically
include natural catastrophes such as floods, droughts, and storms, or man-made crises such as political
unrest or violent extremism. One’s ability to prevent, go through, and rebound from shocks is called
resilience.
The RISE II project addresses the causes of people’s and communities’ chronic vulnerability to shocks by
increasing their resilience. This can be done by helping them develop more and better ways to make a
living, and improve their overall health and nutrition.

OUR GOALS
• Reduced malnutrition in target areas,
• Reduced vulnerability and need for humanitarian assistance,
• Reduced food insecurity through increased food and water availability and improved livelihoods,
• Improved productivity in the agriculture sector and livestock industries,
• Increased representation of women and youth in food and nutrition activities at the community
level.

CONTACTS
USAID MISSION IN NIGER
Jo Lesser-Oltheten
Mission Director
Phone: (+227) 85 94 63 42
HEADQUARTERS
Kimberly Woods
Niger Desk Office
Email: kwoods@usaid.gov

Office of Security Cooperation (OSC) – U.S. Embassy Niamey, Niger

FY 2022 GENERAL FACT SHEET

SECURITY ASSISTANCE / COOPERATION	FY17	FY18	FY19	FY20	FY21	FY22
Foreign Military Financing	$13M	$-0-	$-0-	$-0-	$-0-	——–
International Military Education & Training	$810K	$834K	$1.1M	$800K	$800K	$800K
2282/CTPF/333/HA	$17.5M	$6.7M	$5.3M	$7.8M	$2.9M	——–
PKO (AMEP/GPOI/SGI/TSCTP/ARCT)	$50M	$4.2M	$13.1M	$25.1M	$12M	——–
Military to Military Engagements	$80K	$92K	$90K	$95K	$194K	——–

FLAGSHIP ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

Aviation Capacity Building

• C-130 program: $77M program includes (1) EDA C-130 wing swap, (2) complete C-130H’s, including $35M for training, maintenance, and infrastructure
• Aviation Professional Military Training (Air War College); Senior Air Advisor; future programs focused on sustaining and maintaining aircraft and building logistical and maintenance
• Agadez QRF train/equip + partnership with USAF Air Advisors to provide base security for
• Infrastructure: C-130 Hangar on AB201; hangar refurbishment and warehouse construction on

C4ISR Enterprise Management

• S. provided (2) Cessna 208 ISR A/C with follow-on training, maintenance advisor, and spare parts; also, (2) Cessna 208s for aerial MEDEVAC/CASEVAC, with U.S.-provided advisors for ISR and Maintenance.
• Command & Control (C2) Node Development: $16M program provided a command center in Niamey with field-deployable Mobile Tactical Operations Centers (M-TOC) and comm equipment. C2 Node expands ISR footprint for aircraft and improves ground communication. DoD-funded Air-Ground Integration (AGI) initiative starts

Logistics and Maintenance Capacity Building

• Train-and-equip case for (2) Logistics Companies (both currently forward deployed in Niger)
• Embedded technical Field Service Representatives (FSR) for Mamba maintenance and Communications
• SGI logistics initiatives; provide maintenance/supply infrastructure in Niamey and
• Providing (3) Mobile Field Hospitals via AFRICOM, (105) beds total for civ populations in Ouallam/Niamey/Agadez.

Special Operation Forces Development

• $41M CTPF funding for CT train & equip case for (4) Nigerien CT battalions and support to SOF Training
• DOS CT program to train and equip for Nigerien SOF 2nd Amphib Co. to conduct C-VEO vic. Park W region.

Professionalizing the Force (IMET/M2M)

• One of the top African recipients of IMET funds; (140) Nigerien Officers conducted training in U.S since FY16, to include Army and Air War College, Command and General Staff, Air Command & Staff, and CTFP
• Mil-to-Mil engagements focused on aerial capability development, medical, logistics, and AGI Phase 1
• SGI: largest program in Africa; workshops focused on developing institutional framework, strategic human & financial resource management, logistics, Inspector General capability, and formerly, mil-civ
• Women, Peace, & Security: focused on increasing diversity and roles of women in the FAN; West Point

C-IED: C-IED/EOD/HMA training by SETAF-AF to improve capacity and battlefield evidence collection.

G5 Sahel: provided $21.39M for APCs, log support vehicles, radios, individual equipment, vehicle & comm advisors.

Humanitarian Assistance: Partner with Civil Affairs team in Agadez focused on building relations with Agadez township; school refurbishment, cash for work programs, and solar power technology training.

PKO: GPOI pre-deployment training for Nigerien BN’s deploying to MINUSMA; $4M PKO Training Center upgrades.

OTHER DOD ORGANIZATIONS IN NIGER: Indiana National Guard (INNG) State Partnership Program est. 2017, focused on logistics, maintenance, basic training, and medical development; SOFLE; AB101/201; MIST/CMSE

TREATIES/FACILITIES ACCESS AGREEMENT: SOFA (est. 2013), ASCA (est. 2013), Intel sharing (2014), A/ISR

(2018); CSL Niamey (2013) and Agadez (2016).

Current as of 10 January 2

NIGER

COUNTRY PROFILE
Niger is an emerging democracy landlocked in the Sahel, an increasingly unstable region facing numerous threats such as terrorism and climate change. Despite economic growth driven by the expansion of extractive industries, and recent progress in reducing poverty, broad-based development has been hampered by poor infrastructure, extremely low education levels, and multiple concurrent climatic shocks such as droughts and floods.
Economic progress is being further challenged by the highest fertility rate in the world (7 per woman), which is set to double the population size over the next twenty years. These hurdles, coupled with the increasing presence of violence, crime, and extremism, particularly along the border regions with neighboring Mali, Libya, and Nigeria, put Niger at risk of a reversal of its recent development gains. Niger is also grappling with a significant influx of refugees fleeing conflicts in the region, particularly in Nigeria and Mali.

OUR WORK
ENHANCING RESILIENCE: AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY
Over 80 percent of Nigeriens rely on subsistence agriculture to meet their daily needs. The region’s increasingly frequent climatic shocks, such as droughts and floods, lead to poor harvests and regular food shortages. USAID helps individuals, communities, and governments in Niger to better cope with recurrent crises, increase income levels, strengthen governance, sustainably manage natural resources, and improve health and nutrition. To make communities more resilient to food insecurity, USAID works to improve livestock, resource management, and agricultural practices with a view to supporting inclusive economic growth for the benefit of all Nigeriens. USAID’s programs enhance the ability of stakeholders to make more informed decisions in four areas: agriculture and food security; water resources and hydroclimatic disasters; weather and climate; and land cover and land use change and ecosystems.

DEMOCRACY, HUMAN RIGHTS, AND GOVERNANCE
USAID supports the Government of Niger’s efforts to more effectively respond to citizen concerns and needs. In doing so, USAID focuses on citizen mobilization, advocacy, and dialogue with the government to improve a community’s ability to enact change and demand more responsive governance. USAID is also encouraging cooperation among the legislature, civil society, and local governments to increase citizen participation in governance, particularly in areas vulnerable to violent extremism. Ahead of the 2021 national elections, USAID is promoting a peaceful democratic transition and the first-ever power handover from a civilian regime to another through free, fair, and inclusive elections. These programs promote consensus on the revised electoral code and the electoral processes itself while strengthening key institutions to effectively administer elections.

GLOBAL HEALTH
In Niger, more than 47 percent of children under 5 years of age are chronically undernourished, and the rates of acute malnutrition are well beyond the threshold for public health emergencies. Malaria accounts for 50 percent of deaths among children under 5. In addition, Niger has the highest fertility rate in the world. Left unchecked, Niger’s rapid population growth will further undermine the effective delivery of health services and weaken the resilience of the most vulnerable people in the country. USAID programs focus on developing the capacity of government, civil society, and other important partners to improve family planning, nutrition, and mitigate infectious diseases, including malaria and emerging health threats.

EDUCATION
71 percent of Niger’s population is illiterate and only 54 percent of female primary school students reach 6th grade. USAID has contributed to the Government of Niger’s ambitious national education program with activities that have contributed to progress in the sector. This includes improved reading skills in local languages for primary school students; an improved school environment, especially for girls; increased parental engagement; and strengthened community linkages with education leaders.

WORKING IN CRISES AND CONFLICT
Niger faces security threats from internal and external extremist groups and continues to be a major focus of the Trans-Saharan Counter-Terrorism Partnership that USAID implements throughout the Sahel. USAID is also helping the Nigerien government as well as local partners to create economic opportunities. In addition, USAID supports the civic and political participation of Nigerien youth to undermine extremist messages and encourage stability in Niger and the region.

HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE
USAID is providing emergency humanitarian assistance to Niger with activities designed to support agriculture, livelihoods, food security, health, WASH, and nutrition. This life-saving assistance supports people’s recovery from food insecurity while reinforcing their capacity to cope with future emergencies. An estimated 3.4 million Nigeriens are food-insecure and approximately 1.3 million children under five years of age suffer from acute malnutrition.

USAID/NIGER AND SUPPORT STRUCTURES
USAID is supporting Nigerien pharmaceutical management systems to improve HIV commodity security (such as drugs and testing supplies) as part of a regional initiative that includes six countries in West and Central Africa. USAID also supports the Ministry of Health to eradicate neglected tropical diseases such as trachoma and lymphatic filariasis and to reinforce its capacity to detect and respond to emergent disease threats.
INFECTIOUS DISEASES
USAID/Niger’s activities are complemented by a suite of regional activities led by USAID/Senegal’s Sahel Regional Office, its Bureau of Humanitarian Affairs Regional Office, and the USAID/West Africa Regional Mission in Ghana who share the management responsibility for programs in Niger.

CONTACTS

USAID MISSION IN NIGER
Jo Lesser-Oltheten
Mission Director
Phone: (+227) 85 94 63 42

HEADQUARTERS
Kimberly Woods
Niger Desk Office
Email: kwoods@usaid.gov

 

MCC-NIGER

Sustainable Water and Agriculture Compact

The five-year, $437 million Sustainable Water and Agriculture Compact with the Republic of Niger, which officially began on January 26, 2018, has the goal of reducing poverty and accelerating economic growth for the people of Niger.  The compact seeks to address two major constraints to economic growth: (i) lack of access to water for productive uses, which inhibits agricultural productivity and household food security; and (ii) institutional and physical barriers to trade, including poor road networks and dilapidated market infrastructure, which create high transaction costs and lower sales volume. The compact is working to overcome these constraints with two projects: Irrigation and Market Access and Climate-Resilient Communities.  These two projects aim to increase rural incomes through both greater agricultural production and yields, and through increased value and sales for agricultural products.  These projects are being implemented in the southwestern regions of Dosso, Tahoua, Tillaberi and Maradi. MCC estimates they will directly benefit approximately 3.9 million Nigeriens.

Irrigation and the Market Access Project: [$254.6 million]

The compact’s Irrigation and the Market Access Project will improve access to irrigation through the rehabilitation and development of large- and small-scale irrigation systems for smallholder farmers. Access to irrigation equips communities to increase crop yields as well as livestock production. The project also upgrades road networks to significantly improve access to markets and services, and it provides technical support to farmers, especially women and youth, to competitively position them in the marketplace and improve the performance of their businesses. To ensure sustainability, the project will strengthen local capacities to apply best practices to use and maintain irrigation and road infrastructure.

In addition, the project is working to reform policies and institutions, including capacity development of national water resource monitoring and management, privatization of the national fertilizer distribution system, and creation and operationalization of national roads maintenance entities to ensure effective management of the country’s roads network. Moreover, the project strengthens the Government’s capacities in statistics and data management.

Climate-Resilient Communities Project: [$96.5 million]

The Climate-Resilient Communities Project, implemented in coordination with the World Bank, is designed to increase climate resilience for small-scale agriculture and livestock-dependent families in rural Niger. The project improves small-scale agriculture by providing farmer field schools, removing invasive plant species, and strengthening agroforestry practices. To improve livestock productivity, the project is restoring the boundaries, water points, and pasture quality of four livestock corridors so herders can graze and transport their livestock more efficiently. The project is also modernizing rural livestock markets to increase herder income. Recognizing the importance of animal health, the project is establishing new rural veterinary clinics, funding national vaccination campaigns, and working to establish a national livestock vaccination sustainability fund.

Finally, the Climate Resilient Communities Project includes two grant facilities. The first facility being implemented by the U.S. African Development Foundation provides modest grants to dozens of small agrobusinesses owned primarily by women and youth. The second facility provides larger grants to a few mainstream businesses to advance fertilizer distribution across the country and new technology for food processing.

 

U . S . E m b a s s y N i g e r

U.S. Defense and Security in Niger:

Enhancing Our Partner’s Capacity

ne.usembassy.gov

The Department of Defense (DoD), working through U.S. Africa Command, partners with the Government of Niger to bolster and maintain its ability to provide for the security and safety of Nigeriens. The U.S. Embassy’s Defense Attaché Office (DAO) and Office of Security Cooperation (OSC) coordinate U.S. security assistance with Niger through joint training exercises and operations. Our goal is to enable the Nigerien security forces, primarily the Forces Armées Nigériennes (FAN), to develop and sustain a professional security force, counter regional threats and criminal activities, and contribute to peacekeeping operations.

Since 2012, the DoD and the Department of State have provided Niger more than $500 million in military assistance equipment and training programs – one of the largest security assistance and training programs in sub-Saharan Africa. The U.S. considers the FAN a professional partner and valued ally in our common goal to improve the security of Nigeriens. In support of our partnership with the FAN and assistance in the region, the U.S. Air Force built an 1,800-meter runway at Nigerien Air Base 201 (AB 201) in Agadez from which the Nigerien Air Force will conduct regional support operations along with the DoD. The American presence at Nigerien Air Base 101 (AB 101) in Niamey and AB 201 provides an opportunity for Nigerien and U.S. armed forces to train and work side-by-side.

To further assist the Nigerien people through work with our Nigerien military counterparts, U.S. Civil Affairs Teams at AB 101 and AB 201 have accomplished more than 1,000 civil engagements with local schools, women’s groups, and civilian leadership, helping improve public understanding and appreciation of our joint security operations.

Our flagship partnerships include:

• Aviation Capacity Building: The United States provides over $50 million of training and maintenance support to the Nigerien Air Force’s C-130 and Cessna-208 aviation programs. . In addition, the United States provides pilot and maintenance officer training to eligible Air Force candidates. In addition, via the embassy’s International Military Education and Training (IMET) program, several Nigerien military candidates are afforded the opportunity to receive military education in the United States at the U.S. Air Force Academy, West Point, Command and General Staff College and Air War College, among others..
• Command, Control, Computers and Communications/Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR): The United States has contributed $16 million for development of a FAN Command and Control Node, as well as the operation of two C-208s specifically dedicated to expanding Niger’s military intelligence and surveillance capabilities.
• Antiterrorism Assistance (ATA): Since 2010, more than $25 million has been allocated to help Nigerien National Police, National Gendarmerie, and National Guard forces improve law enforcement, border security, and civilian safety through counter-terrorism training, mentorship, and equipment.
• Logistics and Maintenance Capacity Building: The United States has provided training and equipment for two logistics companies, built two vehicle maintenance facilities, and provided vehicles, fuel training and fuel storage equipment. The U.S. is also dedicated to assisting with the institutional development of the FAN’s logistics enterprise by providing a full-time logistics advisor.
• Professionalizing the Force: Funding since 2016 for international military education and training has allowed 307 Nigerien FAN officers and enlisted to attend advanced and basic professional training in the United States. The Security Governance Initiative (SGI), a long-term capacity-building program, is also helping the FAN deepen its professional capabilities by assisting the development of a national security framework and improved logistics, financial management, and personnel management programs, as well as improved communication of security policies to the public. SGI also has a Women, Peace, and Security line of effort in nascent planning stages. Besides improved capacity, SGI seeks to promote transparency and accountability in the FAN’s management.
• Peacekeeping Operations: The U.S. provides pre-deployment training and equipment for Nigerien Battalions that deploy annually in support of the UN’s Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali. The U.S. has also provided significant infrastructure upgrades and additions to the Ouallam Peacekeeping Training Center.
• Counter-Improvised Explosive Devise (C-IED) Techniques: US Army Africa training has enhanced the FAN’s C-IED explosive ordnance disposal and humanitarian mine action abilities through a train-the-trainer program making the program self-sufficient.
• Flintlock: The U.S. supports Niger’s participation in annual joint exercises with other west- and north-African countries developing the capacity of and collaboration among African, European, and North American security forces to protect civilian populations.
• Women, Peace, and Security: Niger is on the forefront of increasing opportunities for women to serve in its Defense & Security Forces. The OSC has established a benchmark program to improve awareness, increase recruitment, and highlight success stories.

Additionally, the U.S. supports training exchange programs through our International Visitor Leadership Program and the State Partnership Program with the Indiana National Guard.

Through these and other initiatives, the United States continues to be a strong and committed partner conducting joint and regional operations to counter terrorism, sustain peace, and enhance security in the Sahel.

Le Niger se Lève

Of the people, By the people, For the people

ne.usembassy.gov

 

Le Niger se Lève describes all the efforts of U.S. Embassy Niger as it partners with Nigeriens to bring about a better future.  This important work encompasses activities in agriculture, education, entrepreneurship, communications, security, and more.

We sincerely believe that Niger is on the rise.  As partners, we commit to working together to continue a positive trend.  Here are just a few examples of our ongoing efforts:

• With our Nigerien partners, we launched the $437 million Millennium Challenge Compact, which will improve millions of lives through better access to water, advances in agricultural practices, and improvement in roads for market access.
• With an investment of nearly $200 million per year, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) supports programs for improved agricultural production; food security; humanitarian assistance; better health care; advancing democracy, human rights and good governance; conflict prevention and management; education; and economic growth.
• Through the Department of Defense and Department of State, we partner on flagship security-enhancing programs for aviation capacity building, intelligence and surveillance, advancements in logistics and maintenance practices, training and professionalizing the Nigerien Armed Forces, and enhancing police and law enforcement.
• Our public affairs section trains bloggers and journalists, engages hundreds of girls in sports and leadership initiatives, assists entrepreneurs, and sends young people and professionals to the United States on nearly 70 exchanges each year.

We know that there are still many challenges for Niger.  However, we remain optimistic in wanting to see a more prosperous future.  As strong partners, we are closer to achieving our goals and able to do more together than apart.

Our Integrated Country Strategy:  The Roadmap for Our Partnership

The U.S. Embassy’s Integrated Country Strategy (ICS) is a collaboratively produced roadmap designed to meet American policy and program goals in partnership with the Government of Niger.  Employing a “4D” approach using democracy, diplomacy, defense, and development tools, we pursue three main goals:

Goal 1: Strengthen democracy, human rights, and good governance in Niger

We support programs that engage government, non-government, civil society, and community members to increase the transparency and accountability of government institutions in responding to citizen needs.  Through our Political and Public Affairs Sections and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), we partner with civil society organizations that promote fundamental human rights such as freedom of expression and of the press, civil liberties, and the rights of the vulnerable.  Additionally, we support efforts that encourage free and fair elections in 2021and the transparency of government operations.

Goal 2: Strengthen Niger’s capacity to counter regional threats and criminal activity

We partner with the security forces and citizens of Niger to build Niger’s capacity to deter regional threats and counter violent extremism.  Since 2012, the Department of Defense and the State Department have provided Niger with more than $350 million in military assistance equipment and training programs, one of the largest programs in sub-Saharan Africa.  Specific support includes $25 million in Antiterrorism Assistance (ATA), aviation capacity building, and to the continued professionalization of Niger’s security forces.  Our work also extends beyond military partnerships, bringing together government institutions, security forces, and civil society leaders to collaborate on strategies that reduce vulnerability and bolster internal stability.

Goal 3: Increase inclusive and sustainable economic growth

A strong economy yields multiple benefits, including improved delivery of health care, education, sustainability of natural resources, youth employment, support for vulnerable populations, and other services.  This vital development goal is achieved as our Economics Section encourages trade with the United States; the Millennium Challenge Corporation’s $437 million initiative improves agricultural infrastructure and market access; our Public Affairs Section offers academic exchanges and training in entrepreneurship; and USAID promotes improvements in agriculture and food security, education, and global health.

Our comprehensive and integrated roadmap is being implemented by many committed Nigerien and Americans working together to fulfill a common vision:  a better future for the people of Niger.

U.S. Government’s Response to COVID-19 in Niger

Working together with the Government of Niger to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the U.S. Government has, to date, donated nearly $12.1 million dollars to fight this pandemic.  This assistance includes $750,000 for health assistance and $8 million in international disaster and humanitarian assistance for risk-communications, the prevention and control of infectious diseases in health facilities, emergency food assistance, and coordination; and more than $3.3 million in migration and refugee assistance will support vulnerable people in Niger during the pandemic, including refugees, vulnerable migrants, and host communities.

• The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has contributed $4 million dollars for Niger in health and humanitarian assistance for risk communication, infection prevention and control, coordination, and other support to help fight COVID-19.
• The Department of State’s Bureau of Population, Migration, and Refugees has awarded over $2.6 million dollars to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), International Organization for Migration, and International Committee of the Red Cross for the response to COVID-19, including for the construction and furnishing of quarantine and isolation tents in various regions throughout the country and inclusion of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and refugees in the COVID-19 National Plan.
• USAID’s Office of Transition Initiatives has contributed $100,000 dollars in urgently needed supplies to the Ministry of Public Health towards Niger’s COVID-19 National Plan.
• The Defense Attaché’s Office of Security Cooperation in cooperation with the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) advocated for and received $15,000 dollars to purchase personal protective equipment (PPE) for the Nigerien defense and security forces.
• S. military personnel stationed at Nigerien Air Base 201 in Agadez facilitated the donation to the Agadez regional hospital of a tent to be used as a quarantine space in the event it’s needed and also donated medical supplies including hand sanitizer, disposable gloves, boot covers, and five handwashing stations.
• Niger is one of more than 60 countries that received kits, each containing more than 2,000 COVID-19 tests, at the beginning of May funded by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

This assistance comes on top of more than $2 billion in total U.S. Government investments for Niger in the past 20 years, nearly $233 million for health.  The United States is committed to helping Niger build a resilient health care system that can prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease outbreaks such as this shared pandemic in order to make the world more healthy, peaceful, and prosperous.

2021-01-21 COVID-19 Fact Sheet English PDF (199KB)

American Schools and Hospitals Abroad (PDF 397 KB)

ASHA provides assistance to overseas schools, libraries, and hospital centers to highlight American ideas and practices, to provide concrete illustrations of the generosity of the American people, to further U.S. Government public diplomacy, and to catalyze collaboration between U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries.

The Denton Program

The purpose of the Denton Program is to allow U.S. based non-governmental sources to transport humanitarian aid at little or no cost to the donor, while simultaneously putting the extra space on U.S. military transport assets to good use. This program is jointly administered by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), Department of State (DOS) and Department of Defense (DOD). Transportation is generally available to close destinations such as Latin and South America; however, the availability of transportation to particular countries is affected by current military and political situations. Transportation can neither be scheduled nor guaranteed; and therefore, cannot be used to meet urgent needs or deadlines.