Living in Niger

Niger is a landlocked country in West Africa, situated between the Sahara in the north and the more fertile regions along the Niger River in the southwest; around 22.4 million people live there. In the north, the landscape is shaped by desert and large temperature differences, while the south becomes greener during the short rainy season. In Niamey and other cities, many people live in densely built neighborhoods and get around on foot, by motorcycle, or by bus. In rural areas, agriculture, livestock farming, and local markets shape daily life; in cities, trade, crafts, and services are also part of the picture. Family visits, shared meals, and religious or cultural festivals are common leisure activities in many places. Housing, incomes, and transport routes differ significantly between cities, villages, and areas with a strong nomadic character.