Caught between the escalating terror of armed groups and the diplomatic isolation imposed by the junta led by Abdourahamane Tiani, Niger is grappling with one of the most profound economic and security crises in its recent history. For many, survival has become a daily act of resistance against overwhelming odds.
As dusk descends upon the Zinder suburb in southeastern Niger, Rabiatou, 29, a vendor, carefully packs away her stall. With her inventory of second-hand garments balanced atop her head, she begins the journey home. Her day’s efforts yielded a meager sale of just one item for 1,000 F CFA, half of which was immediately consumed by transport costs. Arriving at her dwelling, her infant, cradled on her back, gurgles with delight upon seeing its three
