Highlights
The Nigerien Government launched an emergency plan1 of 45 billion CFA francs (about US$72 million)2 to respond to Diffa’s humanitarian crisis. The plan targets 363,200 people between 25 March and 31 December 2015.
Regional authorities and humanitarian actors conducted a rapid needs assessment following last month’s attacks in Bosso and Diffa. Food and water are urgently needed.
On 24 February, the Government placed the state of emergency in Diffa region on hold for three months.
UNICEF Regional Director and WFP Regional Director respectively visited Diffa on 6 and 11 March.
Situation Overview
More than one month after the Bosso and Diffa3 attacks, the humanitarian situation remains extremely volatile in the region. On 24 February, the Nigerien Government announced that the state of emergency declaration is on hold for three months in order to restore the security stability.
The improved situation in recent weeks has resulted in a gradual return to normal life in certain areas, notably Diffa town, where markets and basic social service have resumed. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) are returning, but no quantitative data is currently available.
Humanitarian actors continue their interventions despite access difficulties, especially in the areas surrounding Lake Chad. Regional authorities and humanitarian partners carried out a rapid needs assessment in 10 villages to assess the changes in the context following the February attack. As part of this evaluation, 1,369 households (8,850 people) were identified,4 475 of whom (3,742 people) were interviewed. The findings of the assessment revealed that access to water and food were people’s primary needs. Shelter and non-food items were also identified as urgent needs.
On 17 March, the Prime Minister of Niger launched an emergency plan of 45 billion CFA francs (about $72 billion) to assist and protect displaced people from Nigeria, IDPs and vulnerable host community members. This plan will cover March to December 2015. During the launch, humanitarian actors reiterated their commitment to support the Government’s efforts
