PRM FY2023 Julia Taft Refugee Fund

As a result of continuous deterioration of security in its borders, Niger has been accumulating situations of forced displacement (out and in) since 2012, including waves from Burkina Faso, Mali and northwestern Nigeria. Based on its mandate, UNHCR, in coordination with the Government as well as key humanitarian and development actors, are working to provide protection and seek solutions for the benefit of refugees, Internally Displaced peoples (IDPs), returnees, persons at risk of statelessness and host communities. In the September 2022 operational update, the UNHCR reported that "Niger is currently hosting 251.081refugees and asylum seekers, with 63% coming from Nigeria, 22% from Mali, 7% from Burkina Faso, and 8% from other countries (Sudan, Eritrea, Somalia, Chad, etc.). Furthermore, there are more than 376,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) and Nigerien returnees (long-time residents in Nigeria, who were forced to flee alongside refugees). UNHCR's work in Niger focuses on the protection, assistance, and solutions for persons of concern, with particular attention to women, children and persons with specific needs guided by a community-based approach." [1]

As of December 8th, no more than 69% from the $130.7 million financial requirement of the UNHCR 2022 operation were funded[2]. Therefore, a large gap had remained infilled. Challenges were considerable, and refugees' needs could not be entirely met in some areas.

Have you identified a gap in humanitarian assistance in an area in Niger? The Julia Taft Fund is here to support local or national NGOs fill those gaps, and thereby build capacity in refugees assistance. The U.S. Embassy Niamey announces an open competition for local/national organizations to submit applications to carry out projects that seek to provide assistance to vulnerable refugee and returnee' families in Niger. Please carefully read all instructions below for details.

[1] https://reporting.unhcr.org/document/3575

[2] https://reporting.unhcr.org/niger-funding-2022