Niger: Sahel Nation

Niger, a landlocked Sahel nation in West Africa, is one of the world's poorest countries despite uranium reserves. Most of the country is covered by the Sahara Desert, with the Niger River providing a lifeline in the southwest.

Niger's diverse ethnic groups include Hausa, Zarma, Tuareg, and Fulani peoples. The capital Niamey sits on the Niger River. The country faces challenges including desertification, food insecurity, and rapid population growth. The W National Park, shared with Benin and Burkina Faso, protects West African wildlife.

French colonization left the official language as French. Niger's uranium mining supplies fuel for nuclear reactors worldwide. Despite poverty and political instability, Nigeriens demonstrate resilience and maintain rich cultural traditions including distinctive music, crafts, and nomadic heritage. The Gerewol festival showcases Wodaabe people's beauty competitions.