By John Ikani
The military government in Niger has announced that schools in the country will begin the new academic year almost a month late due to heavy rainfall and widespread flooding.
“Several schools have been affected, and others are being occupied by those impacted,” a government spokesperson stated on the state-run broadcaster. As a result, the start date has been pushed back from October 2 to October 28.
In recent weeks, Niger has been inundated with relentless downpours, leading to over 300 deaths from drowning and building collapses, according to the interior ministry.
The central-southern city of Maradi, one of the hardest-hit areas, has set up approximately 100 tents in schools to accommodate displaced residents.
The International Rescue Committee reported that the floods have affected over 800,000 people in Niger. The organization noted that countries like Niger, Mali, and Nigeria are experiencing some of the “worst floods in 30 years.”
Niger, like other nations in the semi-arid Sahel region of West Africa, is grappling with the consequences of climate change. In addition to floods, the country has also faced droughts and crop failures in recent years.
Scientists attribute the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including floods and drought, to climate change.
The military government has responded by providing 9,700 tonnes of grain to those in need and asserting that the “situation is under control.”
However, there is growing concern about the damage and destruction of culturally significant buildings.
A few weeks ago, a 19th-century mosque made from wood and straw collapsed in Zinder, the country’s second-largest city.
There is also apprehension about the extent of damage to the historic centre of Agadez, known as the gateway to the desert. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
