The EU has allocated an extra €35 million for humanitarian assistance to West Africa due to the ongoing dire humanitarian situation in the region. Countries such as Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, Mauritania, the Gulf of Guinea coastal countries, and Nigeria are affected by food insecurity and displacement resulting from political instability, conflicts, and violence.
The funding aims to address the emergency needs of the most vulnerable people, focusing on areas such as food assistance, nutrition, health, water, sanitation, shelter, and protection. Specifically, the funding will be directed to humanitarian partners working in Burkina Faso (€10 million), Mali (€8 million), Niger (€8 million), Mauritania (€1 million), Nigeria (€5 million), and the countries in the Gulf of Guinea (€3 million). With this additional funding, this year’s total EU aid to these countries amounts to €160.6 million.
The West and Central Africa region is facing multiple crises due to conflict, insecurity, and climate change, leading to forced displacements, food insecurity, and malnutrition. Violence and violations of International Humanitarian Law limit aid delivery. Access constraints in Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali leave millions without assistance. Spreading conflict in coastal countries is causing increased insecurity and humanitarian needs. In Mauritania, 10% of the population faces food insecurity, while in Nigeria, the Northeast and Northwest are experiencing forced displacements and rising malnutrition, with the 2024 lean season expected to be the most severe in seven years.
