Niger
WFP Aviation provides safe and cost-effective air transport services to the humanitarian community in Niger and within the region under a Special Operation (SO) launched in June 2008. UNHAS operations cover the locations of Niamey, Tahoua, Agadez, Maradi, Zinder. The operation will, as well, support the humanitarian activities in the flood affected areas, such as Dabaga, Tchirozerine and Tabelot.
The deteriorating security situation across the northern and eastern areas of the country and the lack of safe and reliable air services in the region have restricted relief workers’ access to safe travel, hampering the capacity of the humanitarian community to respond to emergency needs. The work of United Nations (UN) agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) continues in the region although at a reduced level.
This operation was suspended from February 2009 due to funding shortage. Because of the fragile political situation in Niger and worsening security, the humanitarian community requested WFP to reinstate the air services. In August 2009, the operation resumed with one Beech 1900.
