Niamey - The aftermath of a military coup in Niger has led to a surge in food prices due to trade sanctions imposed by West African neighbors. A report from reliable sources highlighted that in the capital city of Niamey, a customer noted a more than one-third increase in the cost of a sack of rice, now around 15,000 CFA francs ($25).
"I've truly felt it affecting my finances. At this point, we're all trying to stock up," the customer remarked.
In the Yantala market, the price of cooking oil also rose to 33,000 CFA ($55) per can, up from 22,000 just a few days prior. Boubar Salou, a merchant, expressed his support for the junta's call to unite, stating, "We shouldn't create panic right now. This affects us all... We need to demonstrate that we are Nigeriens and that we must assist those around us, particularly supporting the new government."
The coup, which occurred over a week ago, prompted the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to close borders and halt commercial ties with Niger. This border closure further exacerbates the food shortage crisis in the country.
The International Federation for Human Rights based in Paris and the Nigerien Association for Defense of Human Rights appealed to ECOWAS to rethink its measures to prevent worsening hardships among civilians.
Sita Adamou, head of the Niger group, expressed deep concern over the impact of these sanctions, particularly on the availability of essential food items, medicines, medical equipment, petroleum products, and electricity. Adamou highlighted that the measures have already begun to negatively affect the Nigerien population, which is already grappling with food and health challenges.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Friday that certain foreign assistance programs for Niger would be temporarily paused, while humanitarian and food aid would continue. In a statement, Blinken emphasized, "U.S. assistance to the government of Niger depends on democratic governance and respect for constitutional order, as we have consistently stated since the outset of this situation."
He further reiterated the US commitment to supporting the people of Niger in preserving their democratic system and called for the immediate restoration of the country's democratically elected government.