It has been a violent and bloody start to the New Year in Mali as on January 2&nbsp;two French soldiers were killed in Mali after an explosive device hit their vehicle. Just days before that&nbsp;on December 29, three French soldiers had been killed in a similar fashion.

Al-Qaeda linked groups claimed responsibility for both the attacks. The deaths of the French soldiers have sparked an outpouring of anger back home in France.

Why is the French military present in Mali at all?&nbsp;

The Sahel region is a vast area of inhospitable desert with porous borders, semi-arid land and jihadist attacks.

Geographically, it comprises Senegal from the west to parts of Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali and Niger. In recent years, the Sahel has been in the global spotlight for religious terrorism, arms and drug trafficking and even famine.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bomb-kills-two-french-soldiers-in-mali-354112">Bomb kills two French soldiers in Mali</a>

Since 2012, Mali has faced a series of violent conflicts. The French intervened and dislodged jihadist groups from Mali's cities but could not manage to eliminate them.

The French intervention was part of "Operation Barkhane". Under this operation, France has deployed around 5,000 troops to the Sahel region who are&nbsp;spread out between Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger.&nbsp;They engage in everything from combat patrols to intelligence gathering.

In 2017, they launched the G5 Sahel joint counter-terrorism force. Its mandate is to combat terrorism and organised crime in the Sahel area. It is France's largest overseas operation, with a budget of nearly 600 million euros per year. France maintains that Barkhane’s priority is to kill top jihadist leaders. However,&nbsp;in the last seven years, at least 50 soldiers have been killed and France's defence minister has conceded that security conditions in the area remain difficult.

Terrorist groups resort to guerrilla warfare and with five French soldiers killed within a span of a week,&nbsp;France is reconsidering its role in the region. It does not help that the deaths have sparked outrage in France.

"It was an explosive device with a vehicle that should no longer be used in the french army, but which is still in use, and the last deaths in recent times have been because of these vehicles, it's a bit of a pity, we have a bit of a feeling that our leaders are not doing what is necessary to change this," a student, former soldier in Mali said.

However, France has maintained that the Barkhane forces have achieved major military success and neutralised several senior members of the Al-Qaeda and affiliated terror groups.

Paris says it will reconsider its military strategy in the Sahel region and is likely to reduce military deployment. The final decision will be made at the next joint summit of the G5 Sahel countries in February.

Lack of funds and training have left the G5 countries largely dependent on France. It's a catch 22 situation — if France pulls out, the fragile peace in the Sahel area might collapse. However,&nbsp;if France stays, it may be stuck in a never-ending war.

It has been a violent and bloody start to the New Year in Mali as on January 2 two French soldiers were killed in Mali after an explosive device hit their vehicle.

It has been a violent and bloody start to the New Year in Mali as on January 2 two French soldiers were killed in Mali after an explosive device hit their vehicle. Just days before that on December 29, three French soldiers had been killed in a similar fashion. Al-Qaeda linked groups claimed responsibility for both the attacks. The deaths of the French soldiers have sparked an outpouring of anger back home in France. Why is the French military present in Mali at all? The Sahel region is a vast area of inhospitable desert with porous borders, semi-arid land and jihadist attacks. Geographically, it comprises Senegal from the west to parts of Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali and Niger. In recent years, the Sahel has been in the global spotlight for religious terrorism, arms and drug trafficking and even famine. Also read| Bomb kills two French soldiers in Mali Since 2012, Mali has faced a series of violent conflicts. The French intervened and dislodged jihadist groups from Mali's cities but could not manage to eliminate them. The French intervention was part of "Operation Barkhane". Under this operation, France has deployed around 5,000 troops to the Sahel region who are spread out between Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger. They engage in everything from combat patrols to intelligence gathering. In 2017, they launched the G5 Sahel joint counter-terrorism force. Its mandate is to combat terrorism and organised crime in the Sahel area. It is France's largest overseas operation, with a budget of nearly 600 million euros per year. France maintains that Barkhane’s priority is to kill top jihadist leaders. However, in the last seven years, at least 50 soldiers have been killed and France's defence minister has conceded that security conditions in the area remain difficult. Terrorist groups resort to guerrilla warfare and with five French soldiers killed within a span of a week, France is reconsidering its role in the region. It does not help that the deaths have sparked outrage in France. "It was an explosive device with a vehicle that should no longer be used in the french army, but which is still in use, and the last deaths in recent times have been because of these vehicles, it's a bit of a pity, we have a bit of a feeling that our leaders are not doing what is necessary to change this," a student, former soldier in Mali said. However, France has maintained that the Barkhane forces have achieved major military success and neutralised several senior members of the Al-Qaeda and affiliated terror groups. Paris says it will reconsider its military strategy in the Sahel region and is likely to reduce military deployment. The final decision will be made at the next joint summit of the G5 Sahel countries in February. Lack of funds and training have left the G5 countries largely dependent on France. It's a catch 22 situation — if France pulls out, the fragile peace in the Sahel area might collapse. However, if France stays, it may be stuck in a never-ending war.

French troops face grim reality in Mali

One hundred people were killed on Saturday in attacks on two villages in western&nbsp;Niger, Prime Minister Brigi Rafini said following one of the deadliest days in recent memory for a country ravaged by Islamist violence.

Rafini announced the death toll in remarks broadcast on national television on Sunday from a visit to the zone, near the border with Mali. He did not say who was responsible.

Security sources said on Saturday that at least 70 civilians had been killed in simultaneous raids by suspected Islamist militants on the villages of Tchombangou and Zaroumdareye.

Niger&nbsp;has suffered repeated attacks by militants linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State near its borders with Mali and Burkina Faso. The violence is part of a wider security crisis in West Africa's Sahel region that has unnerved Western allies like France, who have poured troops and resources into the region.

Niger&nbsp;has also seen tit-for-tat killings between rival ethnic communities that have been stoked by the jihadist violence and competition for scarce resources.

Saturday's attacks came on the same day that the electoral commission announced the results from the first round of the election to replace President Mahamadou Issoufou, who is stepping down after a decade in power.

Ruling party candidate Mohamed Bazoum, who finished in first, expressed his condolences on Sunday to the victims.

The attacks, he said in a video he posted on social media, "remind us that terrorist groups constitute a grave threat to cohesion within communities unlike any other".

Bazoum will face former President Mahamane Ousmane in a second-round run-off expected on February&nbsp;21.

One hundred people were killed on Saturday in attacks on two villages in western Niger, Prime Minister Brigi Rafini said following one of the deadliest days in recent memory for a country ravaged by Islamist violence.

One hundred people were killed on Saturday in attacks on two villages in western Niger, Prime Minister Brigi Rafini said following one of the deadliest days in recent memory for a country ravaged by Islamist violence. Rafini announced the death toll in remarks broadcast on national television on Sunday from a visit to the zone, near the border with Mali. He did not say who was responsible. Security sources said on Saturday that at least 70 civilians had been killed in simultaneous raids by suspected Islamist militants on the villages of Tchombangou and Zaroumdareye. Niger has suffered repeated attacks by militants linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State near its borders with Mali and Burkina Faso. The violence is part of a wider security crisis in West Africa's Sahel region that has unnerved Western allies like France, who have poured troops and resources into the region. Niger has also seen tit-for-tat killings between rival ethnic communities that have been stoked by the jihadist violence and competition for scarce resources. Saturday's attacks came on the same day that the electoral commission announced the results from the first round of the election to replace President Mahamadou Issoufou, who is stepping down after a decade in power. Ruling party candidate Mohamed Bazoum, who finished in first, expressed his condolences on Sunday to the victims. The attacks, he said in a video he posted on social media, "remind us that terrorist groups constitute a grave threat to cohesion within communities unlike any other". Bazoum will face former President Mahamane Ousmane in a second-round run-off expected on February 21.

Niger village attacks killed 100, says prime minister

Niger votes in an election on Sunday that is expected to lead to the first transfer of power between two democratically elected presidents in a country reeling from Islamist violence.

Former interior minister Mohamed Bazoum, the ruling party`s candidate, is the overwhelming favourite to succeed President Mahamadou Issoufou, who is stepping down after two five-year terms leading the largely desert country of 23 million.

Bazoum, 60, has promised continuity with Issoufou`s policies, while also vowing to clean up pervasive corruption.

"If I am lucky enough to win this election, you will have chosen someone who is ready from day one," he said in a campaign video.

Niger faces twin security crises. It has suffered repeated attacks near its western borders with Mali and Burkina Faso from militants linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State. Near its southeastern border with Nigeria it faces attacks from Boko Haram. Hundreds of soldiers and civilians have been killed in the last year alone.

The economic situation is also critical. More than 40% of the population lives in extreme poverty, and the COVID-19 pandemic has slowed growth to a crawl, compounding the effects of climate change and low prices for top export uranium.

Bazoum faces 29 other candidates, who will hope to force a second round by denying him an outright majority of the vote.

Hama Amadou, who finished runner-up in the last election, was barred from running because of a criminal conviction, leaving the opposition without an obvious figurehead.

But last week, Amadou`s party called on its supporters to turn out for Mahamane Ousmame, who was president from 1993-1996.

"After my candidate was disqualified, I didn`t have the motivation to come out and vote," said Ali Hamma, an Amadou supporter. "But with the new instructions, I am going to vote."

A peaceful transfer of power would be a milestone for Niger, which has experienced four coups since gaining independence from France in 1960.

It would also stand in stark contrast to Ivory Coast and Guinea, whose presidents this year used constitutional changes to extend their tenures to three terms, raising fears of a democratic backslide in West Africa.

Niger votes in an election on Sunday that is expected to lead to the first transfer of power between two democratically elected presidents in a country reeling from Islamist violence.

Niger votes in an election on Sunday that is expected to lead to the first transfer of power between two democratically elected presidents in a country reeling from Islamist violence. Former interior minister Mohamed Bazoum, the ruling party`s candidate, is the overwhelming favourite to succeed President Mahamadou Issoufou, who is stepping down after two five-year terms leading the largely desert country of 23 million. Bazoum, 60, has promised continuity with Issoufou`s policies, while also vowing to clean up pervasive corruption. "If I am lucky enough to win this election, you will have chosen someone who is ready from day one," he said in a campaign video. Niger faces twin security crises. It has suffered repeated attacks near its western borders with Mali and Burkina Faso from militants linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State. Near its southeastern border with Nigeria it faces attacks from Boko Haram. Hundreds of soldiers and civilians have been killed in the last year alone. The economic situation is also critical. More than 40% of the population lives in extreme poverty, and the COVID-19 pandemic has slowed growth to a crawl, compounding the effects of climate change and low prices for top export uranium. Bazoum faces 29 other candidates, who will hope to force a second round by denying him an outright majority of the vote. Hama Amadou, who finished runner-up in the last election, was barred from running because of a criminal conviction, leaving the opposition without an obvious figurehead. But last week, Amadou`s party called on its supporters to turn out for Mahamane Ousmame, who was president from 1993-1996. "After my candidate was disqualified, I didn`t have the motivation to come out and vote," said Ali Hamma, an Amadou supporter. "But with the new instructions, I am going to vote." A peaceful transfer of power would be a milestone for Niger, which has experienced four coups since gaining independence from France in 1960. It would also stand in stark contrast to Ivory Coast and Guinea, whose presidents this year used constitutional changes to extend their tenures to three terms, raising fears of a democratic backslide in West Africa.

Niger heads to polls in search of first democratic transition

Polling booths across Niger saw queues of voters who are voting in an election that will mark first peaceful transition of power since Niger's independence. The elections are taking place in the shadow of Jihadist attacks. Niger gained independence from France 60 years ago but the politics has been marred by numerous coups.

Around 7.4 million people are registered to vote for the ballot for presidency, which coincides with legislative elections. Niger is ranked as the world's poorest country as per United Nations Human Development Index.

"I expect the Nigerien president to put security, health, progress and democracy first," Aboubakar Saleh, a 37-year-old launderer, told AFP in Niamey without revealing who he voted for.

Issaka Soumana, a 52-year-old lorry driver, said he wanted change.

"Niger is not moving forward. Our country must rise," he said, brandishing his thumb stained with ink to show he had cast his ballot.

Niger's incumbent President Mahamadou Issoufou was elected in 2011 after a coup in 2010. He has agreed to step down after two successive terms.

The frontrunner in the 30-strong field is his designated successor, Mohamed Bazoum, 60, a former interior and foreign minister.
<img alt="Niger's presidential candidate Mohamed Bazoum leaves the polling station after casting his ballot in Niamey on December 27, 2020 during Niger's presidential and legislative elections" data-caption="Niger's presidential candidate Mohamed Bazoum leaves the polling station after casting his ballot in Niamey on December 27, 2020 during Niger's presidential and legislative elections" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bb6a7b2f-9a83-4c5c-aa2d-11a5b2823771" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8XT92K.jpg" />
"It is a great pride that this date of December 27 has been respected," Bazoum said after voting.

Bazoum's main rival, former prime minister Hama Amadou, was barred from contesting the vote on the grounds that in 2017 he was handed a 12-month jail term for baby trafficking -- a charge he says was bogus.

The polling stations will close at 1800 GMT on Sunday, December 27. Partial results will be announced on Monday while full results will be available on Wednesday and Thursday.
<img alt="Niger election" data-caption="A Nigerien soldier stands guard as Niger's outgoing president Mahamadou Issoufou arrives at a polling station in Niamey on December 27, 2020" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="419172b9-037a-411f-bb4f-1e7918068d5e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8XT926.jpg" />
Niger has borne burnt of Jihadist violence on its southwestern border with Mali, and its southeastern frontier with Nigeria.

A jihadist insurgency that has spilt across borders in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger claimed some 4,000 lives last year from jihadist violence and ethnic bloodshed stirred by Islamists, according to the UN.

In Niger itself, hundreds have died in the past five years, and hundreds of thousands have fled their homes.

(With AFP inputs)

Polling booths across Niger saw queues of voters who are voting in an election that will mark first peaceful transition of power since Niger's independence. The elections are taking place in the shadow of Jihadist attacks.

Polling booths across Niger saw queues of voters who are voting in an election that will mark first peaceful transition of power since Niger's independence. The elections are taking place in the shadow of Jihadist attacks. Niger gained independence from France 60 years ago but the politics has been marred by numerous coups. Around 7.4 million people are registered to vote for the ballot for presidency, which coincides with legislative elections. Niger is ranked as the world's poorest country as per United Nations Human Development Index. "I expect the Nigerien president to put security, health, progress and democracy first," Aboubakar Saleh, a 37-year-old launderer, told AFP in Niamey without revealing who he voted for. Issaka Soumana, a 52-year-old lorry driver, said he wanted change. "Niger is not moving forward. Our country must rise," he said, brandishing his thumb stained with ink to show he had cast his ballot. Niger's incumbent President Mahamadou Issoufou was elected in 2011 after a coup in 2010. He has agreed to step down after two successive terms. The frontrunner in the 30-strong field is his designated successor, Mohamed Bazoum, 60, a former interior and foreign minister. "It is a great pride that this date of December 27 has been respected," Bazoum said after voting. Bazoum's main rival, former prime minister Hama Amadou, was barred from contesting the vote on the grounds that in 2017 he was handed a 12-month jail term for baby trafficking -- a charge he says was bogus. The polling stations will close at 1800 GMT on Sunday, December 27. Partial results will be announced on Monday while full results will be available on Wednesday and Thursday. Niger has borne burnt of Jihadist violence on its southwestern border with Mali, and its southeastern frontier with Nigeria. A jihadist insurgency that has spilt across borders in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger claimed some 4,000 lives last year from jihadist violence and ethnic bloodshed stirred by Islamists, according to the UN. In Niger itself, hundreds have died in the past five years, and hundreds of thousands have fled their homes. (With AFP inputs)

Niger citizens vote in a historic election

African country Niger is all set to votes in an general election today to elect its next president that is expected to lead to the first transfer of power between two democratically elected presidents in a country reeling from Islamist violence.

Niger braces for first democratic transition of power

Boko Haram has claimed responsibility for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-students-feared-abducted-after-attack-on-nigeria-school-349412">abduction of hundreds of students</a> from northwestern Nigeria from a school.&nbsp;

The Islamist group sent a voice recorded message to the news agency AFP, like previous messages, and claimed responsibility of the abduction. "I am Abubakar Shekau and our brothers are behind the kidnapping in Katsina," the recording revealed.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boko-haram-claims-responsibility-of-murdering-27-villagers-in-niger-349725">Boko Haram claims responsibility of murdering 27 villagers in Niger</a>

"We carried out the Katsina attack for the religion of Allah to be supreme and to debase unbelief, because western education is not Islamic and what is taught is not sanctioned by Allah and the Prophet," he continued.

Aminu Bello Masari, the Governor of Katsina State took to Twitter to give updates about the rescue mission of the children. "The abductors of our Children have made contacts with the Government and talks are ongoing to ensure their safety and return to their respective families."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/20-boko-haram-terrorists-killed-as-nigerian-troops-repel-attack-army-349576">20 Boko Haram terrorists killed as Nigerian troops repel attack: Army</a>

He also revealed the location of their hiding place has also been identified and the security forces are in contact with the abductors, trying to negotiate a deal. "The security agencies deployed for rescue operations have also informed us that they have located their position," he added.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The abductors of our Children have made contacts with the Government and talks are ongoing to ensure their safety and return to their respective families. 
 
The security agencies deployed for rescue operations have also informed us that they have located their position.
— Aminu Bello Masari (@GovernorMasari) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovernorMasari/status/1338566823185436673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

As of now, the total tally of the missing children has not been made clear. As per&nbsp;Military spokesman General John Enenche spokesman, nearly 333 students have been reported missing.&nbsp;

A group of men, heavily armed, raided an all-boys&nbsp;Government Science Secondary School in the town of Kankara on Friday and abducted hundreds of children which added to the recent violent attacks by the group in the areas of Niger.

Boko Haram has claimed responsibility for the abduction of hundreds of students from northwestern Nigeria from a school. The Islamist group sent a voice recorded message to the news agency AFP, like previous messages, and claimed responsibility of the abduction.

Boko Haram has claimed responsibility for the abduction of hundreds of students from northwestern Nigeria from a school. The Islamist group sent a voice recorded message to the news agency AFP, like previous messages, and claimed responsibility of the abduction. "I am Abubakar Shekau and our brothers are behind the kidnapping in Katsina," the recording revealed. Also read| Boko Haram claims responsibility of murdering 27 villagers in Niger "We carried out the Katsina attack for the religion of Allah to be supreme and to debase unbelief, because western education is not Islamic and what is taught is not sanctioned by Allah and the Prophet," he continued. Aminu Bello Masari, the Governor of Katsina State took to Twitter to give updates about the rescue mission of the children. "The abductors of our Children have made contacts with the Government and talks are ongoing to ensure their safety and return to their respective families." Also read| 20 Boko Haram terrorists killed as Nigerian troops repel attack: Army He also revealed the location of their hiding place has also been identified and the security forces are in contact with the abductors, trying to negotiate a deal. "The security agencies deployed for rescue operations have also informed us that they have located their position," he added. The abductors of our Children have made contacts with the Government and talks are ongoing to ensure their safety and return to their respective families. The security agencies deployed for rescue operations have also informed us that they have located their position. — Aminu Bello Masari (@GovernorMasari) December 14, 2020 × As of now, the total tally of the missing children has not been made clear. As per Military spokesman General John Enenche spokesman, nearly 333 students have been reported missing. A group of men, heavily armed, raided an all-boys Government Science Secondary School in the town of Kankara on Friday and abducted hundreds of children which added to the recent violent attacks by the group in the areas of Niger.

Boko Haram claims responsibility for abducting hundreds of students in Nigeria

Nigeria's Islamist terrorist group Boko Haram has claimed responsibility for the bloody attack that was unleashed on a village in neighbouring Niger on the weekend.

This attack took place on Saturday and left at least 27 villagers dead and several other critically injured&nbsp;on Toumour in the Diffa region, said a senior local official.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/20-boko-haram-terrorists-killed-as-nigerian-troops-repel-attack-army-349576">20 Boko Haram terrorists killed as Nigerian troops repel attack: Army</a>

Through a video message sent exclusively to the news agency, AFP, Boko Haram claimed responsibility of one of the deadliest attacks in the region. "We hereby inform the world that we are responsible for the attack in the town of Diffa in Niger Republic yesterday," the video said.

The message was delivered by a&nbsp;jihadist fighter who was clad in military&nbsp;camouflage with his face swathed in a turban, AFP reported. Speaking in the regional language Hausa, he claimed, "We carried out the attack with the power of Allah and His help."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-students-feared-abducted-after-attack-on-nigeria-school-349412">Hundreds of students feared abducted after attack on Nigeria school</a>

These attacks took place a few hours before the&nbsp;municipal and regional elections were scheduled to take place in Niger on Sunday. The Islamist group, which is led by&nbsp;elusive leader Abubakar Shekau,&nbsp;has been actively revolting against the authorities by carrying out such deadly attacks and killing villagers in cold blood.

The attack, which is one of many in the recent months, will not be the last one, the group has claimed. Boko Haram has warned Christians that they will be more of such attacks, especially before Christmas.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/boko-haram-attack-in-niger-claims-at-least-27-lives-several-wounded-349608">WATCH|&nbsp;</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/boko-haram-attack-in-niger-claims-at-least-27-lives-several-wounded-349608/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

This attack, which lasted almost three hours, led to massive destruction, in addition to the loss of lives. Nearly 1,000 houses and numerous vehicles were burnt down and the central market, too, was destroyed by being set on fire, the locals reported.

"Nearly 60 percent of the village has been destroyed," an elected local official revealed to AFP on condition of anonymity.

Nigeria's Islamist terrorist group Boko Haram has claimed responsibility for the bloody attack that was unleashed on a village in neighbouring Niger on the weekend.

Nigeria's Islamist terrorist group Boko Haram has claimed responsibility for the bloody attack that was unleashed on a village in neighbouring Niger on the weekend. This attack took place on Saturday and left at least 27 villagers dead and several other critically injured on Toumour in the Diffa region, said a senior local official. Also read| 20 Boko Haram terrorists killed as Nigerian troops repel attack: Army Through a video message sent exclusively to the news agency, AFP, Boko Haram claimed responsibility of one of the deadliest attacks in the region. "We hereby inform the world that we are responsible for the attack in the town of Diffa in Niger Republic yesterday," the video said. The message was delivered by a jihadist fighter who was clad in military camouflage with his face swathed in a turban, AFP reported. Speaking in the regional language Hausa, he claimed, "We carried out the attack with the power of Allah and His help." Also read| Hundreds of students feared abducted after attack on Nigeria school These attacks took place a few hours before the municipal and regional elections were scheduled to take place in Niger on Sunday. The Islamist group, which is led by elusive leader Abubakar Shekau, has been actively revolting against the authorities by carrying out such deadly attacks and killing villagers in cold blood. The attack, which is one of many in the recent months, will not be the last one, the group has claimed. Boko Haram has warned Christians that they will be more of such attacks, especially before Christmas. WATCH| × This attack, which lasted almost three hours, led to massive destruction, in addition to the loss of lives. Nearly 1,000 houses and numerous vehicles were burnt down and the central market, too, was destroyed by being set on fire, the locals reported. "Nearly 60 percent of the village has been destroyed," an elected local official revealed to AFP on condition of anonymity.

Boko Haram claims responsibility of murdering 27 villagers in Niger

Boko Haram group killed at least 27 people in an attack of "unprecedented savagery" in the town of Toumour, in the southeastern Niger region of Diffa, according to local officials. Between 800 and 1,000 houses, the central market and numerous vehicles were also destroyed in the fire, according to a senior local official.

Boko Haram attack in Niger claims at least 27 lives, several wounded

In another horrific attack in recent weeks, Boko Haram Jihadists killed at least 27 people in an attack in Niger. The attack took place overnight in the village of Toumour in Difffa region. Many others are wounded. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Witnesses and other officials confirmed the attack, which came as municipal and regional elections went ahead across the country.

On November 28, Boko Haram terrorists <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boko-haram-kills-at-least-43-farm-workers-in-nigeria-346154">struck in Nigeria</a>. Around 30 of the men were beheaded in the attack in the village of Zabarmari.

"Some victims were killed or wounded by bullets, others were burnt inside their houses, consumed by the flames of an enormous fire set by the attackers," said an&nbsp;official.

Between 800 and 1,000 houses, the central market and numerous vehicles were also destroyed in the fire, he added.

Roughly 70 attackers arrived at Toumour at around 1745 GMT on foot, having swum across Lake Chad, said the official. The attack itself lasted three hours.

"They first attacked the residence of the traditional chief, who only just managed to escape," he said.

"It was an attack of unprecedented savagery," said a local elected official who asked not to be named. "Nearly 60 percent of the village has been destroyed."

(With agency inputs)

In another horrific attack in recent weeks, Boko Haram Jihadists killed at least 27 people in an attack in Niger. The attack took place overnight in the village of Toumour in Difffa region.

In another horrific attack in recent weeks, Boko Haram Jihadists killed at least 27 people in an attack in Niger. The attack took place overnight in the village of Toumour in Difffa region. Many others are wounded. Witnesses and other officials confirmed the attack, which came as municipal and regional elections went ahead across the country. On November 28, Boko Haram terrorists struck in Nigeria. Around 30 of the men were beheaded in the attack in the village of Zabarmari. "Some victims were killed or wounded by bullets, others were burnt inside their houses, consumed by the flames of an enormous fire set by the attackers," said an official. Between 800 and 1,000 houses, the central market and numerous vehicles were also destroyed in the fire, he added. Roughly 70 attackers arrived at Toumour at around 1745 GMT on foot, having swum across Lake Chad, said the official. The attack itself lasted three hours. "They first attacked the residence of the traditional chief, who only just managed to escape," he said. "It was an attack of unprecedented savagery," said a local elected official who asked not to be named. "Nearly 60 percent of the village has been destroyed." (With agency inputs)

Boko Haram Jihadists kill 27 in attack in Niger

Voters in the poor West African country of Niger cast ballots Sunday in municipal and regional polls two weeks ahead of a presidential election which the incumbent, Mahamadou Issoufou, will not contest because his two terms are up.

The ruling Nigerien Party for Democracy and Socialism (PNDS) is the overwhelming favourite in Sunday's poll and its presidential candidate Mohamed Bazoum is the runaway frontrunner in the December 27 ballot.

Some 7.4 million people are eligible to vote in the long-delayed polls in the country's 266 municipalities.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/executed-nigerian-farmers-were-caught-between-boko-haram-and-the-army-349161">&nbsp;Executed Nigerian farmers were caught between Boko Haram and the Army</a>

Many parts of the Sahel country's west and southeast have suffered repeated jihadists attacks since 2015, preventing people from registering to vote, according to the national electoral commission CENI.

Polls close at six pm (1700 GMT).

Issoufou, who was elected in 2011 and 2016, has won praise for his decision to step aside for a successor, unlike some counterparts on the continent who have pushed through constitutional changes in order to extend their presidencies.

The election should mark the first peaceful transfer of power in the history of the coup-prone former French colony.

Bazoum, 60, a former interior and foreign minister under Issoufou, is among 30 candidates in the race.

Last month Niger's constitutional court blocked main opposition leader Hama Amadou, 70, from running over a 2017 conviction for baby-smuggling, a case he claimed was politically motivated.

Voters in the poor West African country of Niger cast ballots Sunday in municipal and regional polls two weeks ahead of a presidential election which the incumbent, Mahamadou Issoufou, will not contest because his two terms are up.

Voters in the poor West African country of Niger cast ballots Sunday in municipal and regional polls two weeks ahead of a presidential election which the incumbent, Mahamadou Issoufou, will not contest because his two terms are up. The ruling Nigerien Party for Democracy and Socialism (PNDS) is the overwhelming favourite in Sunday's poll and its presidential candidate Mohamed Bazoum is the runaway frontrunner in the December 27 ballot. Some 7.4 million people are eligible to vote in the long-delayed polls in the country's 266 municipalities. Also read| Executed Nigerian farmers were caught between Boko Haram and the Army Many parts of the Sahel country's west and southeast have suffered repeated jihadists attacks since 2015, preventing people from registering to vote, according to the national electoral commission CENI. Polls close at six pm (1700 GMT). Issoufou, who was elected in 2011 and 2016, has won praise for his decision to step aside for a successor, unlike some counterparts on the continent who have pushed through constitutional changes in order to extend their presidencies. The election should mark the first peaceful transfer of power in the history of the coup-prone former French colony. Bazoum, 60, a former interior and foreign minister under Issoufou, is among 30 candidates in the race. Last month Niger's constitutional court blocked main opposition leader Hama Amadou, 70, from running over a 2017 conviction for baby-smuggling, a case he claimed was politically motivated.

Niger votes in city, regional polls ahead of presidential ballot

The 47th meet of the foreign ministers of the OIC or Organisation of Islamic Cooperation took place at an India-built convention center in Niger's capital Niamey. The Mahatma Gandhi International Convention Centre (MGICC) is the first such centre which was established in Africa by India to honour the memory of Mahatma Gandhi whose 150th birth anniversary was observed in 2019.

Maldives Foreign minister Abdulla Shahid tweeted a picture of himself at the convention centre saying, OIC meet was "taking place at the beautiful Mahatma Gandhi International Conference Center in Niamey, at this time of crisis it is crucial to build solidarity, togetherness and friendship to overcome the many challenges the world faces today!"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The 47th Council of Foreign Ministers of <a href="https://twitter.com/OIC_OCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OIC_OCI</a>, taking place at the beautiful Mahatma Gandhi International Conference Center in Niamey, at this time of crisis, it is crucial to build solidarity, togetherness and friendship to overcome the many challenges the world faces today! <a href="https://t.co/RM9C2MNq1x">pic.twitter.com/RM9C2MNq1x</a>
— Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) <a href="https://twitter.com/abdulla_shahid/status/1332324120965623809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The centre was jointly inaugurated by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Niger's President Mahamadou Issoufou during the former's visit to the country in January of this year.&nbsp;

A Ministry of External Affairs release that time said, "The establishment of the Centre is a landmark for India-Niger friendship, as also a symbol of India’s firm commitment towards Africa."

The plenary hall of the centre has a capacity of 2000 people and with total cost being at USD 56 million. It was constructed by Shapoorji Pallonji Private Limited with Government of India's NBCC being the project management consultant for the project.&nbsp;

The total duration of construction was 13 months, and India is building more such centres across the continent. India offered to establish Mahatma Gandhi Convention Centres in more than 20 countries in Africa. The centres in 9 countries are being built in the immediate phase.

The 47th meet of the foreign ministers of the OIC or Organisation of Islamic Cooperation took place at an India-built convention center in Niger's capital Niamey.

The 47th meet of the foreign ministers of the OIC or Organisation of Islamic Cooperation took place at an India-built convention center in Niger's capital Niamey. The Mahatma Gandhi International Convention Centre (MGICC) is the first such centre which was established in Africa by India to honour the memory of Mahatma Gandhi whose 150th birth anniversary was observed in 2019. Maldives Foreign minister Abdulla Shahid tweeted a picture of himself at the convention centre saying, OIC meet was "taking place at the beautiful Mahatma Gandhi International Conference Center in Niamey, at this time of crisis it is crucial to build solidarity, togetherness and friendship to overcome the many challenges the world faces today!" The 47th Council of Foreign Ministers of @OIC_OCI, taking place at the beautiful Mahatma Gandhi International Conference Center in Niamey, at this time of crisis, it is crucial to build solidarity, togetherness and friendship to overcome the many challenges the world faces today! pic.twitter.com/RM9C2MNq1x — Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) November 27, 2020 × The centre was jointly inaugurated by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Niger's President Mahamadou Issoufou during the former's visit to the country in January of this year. A Ministry of External Affairs release that time said, "The establishment of the Centre is a landmark for India-Niger friendship, as also a symbol of India’s firm commitment towards Africa." The plenary hall of the centre has a capacity of 2000 people and with total cost being at USD 56 million. It was constructed by Shapoorji Pallonji Private Limited with Government of India's NBCC being the project management consultant for the project. The total duration of construction was 13 months, and India is building more such centres across the continent. India offered to establish Mahatma Gandhi Convention Centres in more than 20 countries in Africa. The centres in 9 countries are being built in the immediate phase.

OIC meet takes place at India-built convention centre in Niger

An American citizen was kidnapped near the town of Birnin Konni in southern Niger in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

According to a Reuters report, the details of the kidnapping were not immediately clear, and no one had claimed responsibility on Tuesday morning.

Niger lies in the heart of the vast and impoverished Sahel, which is struggling with a jihadist insurgency that has claimed thousands of lives and driven hundreds of thousands from their homes.

Birnin Konni is a few hundred miles to the east of that region, near the border with Nigeria.

Several westerners are currently hostage in the region.

They include American aid worker Jeffery Woodke, who was kidnapped in the central town of Abalak in October 2016 and is believed to have been taken to neighbouring Mali.

The president of Niger, Mahamadou Issoufou, said in September last year that he had information that Woodke was alive and in good health.

Three Europeans, including 75-year-old French NGO worker Sophie Petronin, were released by their captors in Mali earlier this month under a prisoner swap arranged by the Malian government.

(with inputs)

An American citizen was kidnapped near the town of Birnin Konni in southern Niger in the early hours of Tuesday morning. According to a Reuters report, the details of the kidnapping were not immediately clear, and no one had claimed responsibility on Tuesday morning.

An American citizen was kidnapped near the town of Birnin Konni in southern Niger in the early hours of Tuesday morning. According to a Reuters report, the details of the kidnapping were not immediately clear, and no one had claimed responsibility on Tuesday morning. Niger lies in the heart of the vast and impoverished Sahel, which is struggling with a jihadist insurgency that has claimed thousands of lives and driven hundreds of thousands from their homes. Birnin Konni is a few hundred miles to the east of that region, near the border with Nigeria. Several westerners are currently hostage in the region. They include American aid worker Jeffery Woodke, who was kidnapped in the central town of Abalak in October 2016 and is believed to have been taken to neighbouring Mali. The president of Niger, Mahamadou Issoufou, said in September last year that he had information that Woodke was alive and in good health. Three Europeans, including 75-year-old French NGO worker Sophie Petronin, were released by their captors in Mali earlier this month under a prisoner swap arranged by the Malian government. (with inputs)

US national kidnapped in southern Niger, sources say

Soldiers in Niger executed dozens of civilians during the counterinsurgency campaign against jihadists in the country's troubled Tillaberi region, a probe into the deaths reported.

This campaign was carried out earlier this year.

The West African nation has suffered years of conflict with Islamic militants operating in the vast and inhospitable Sahel desert, with thousands of soldiers and civilians killed to date.

The national armies of Niger and its neighbours Mali and Burkina Faso have been accused of war crimes in their response operations, including forced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.

Niger's National Commission on Human Rights was investigating reports by Amnesty International and other rights groups that 102 civilians had gone missing in the western province between March 27 and April 2 after an army operation.

Jihadist violence resulted in 4,000 deaths in Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso last year, the United Nations has said.

The UN has condemned what it said was a spike in criminal acts by national armies in the Sahel at the beginning of this year, including more than 100 extrajudicial executions by the Malian army between January and March.

Amnesty International reported in June that the armies of Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso had been responsible for nearly 200 disappearances in the space of a few months.

Soldiers in Niger executed dozens of civilians during the counterinsurgency campaign against jihadists in the country's troubled Tillaberi region, a probe into the deaths reported.

Soldiers in Niger executed dozens of civilians during the counterinsurgency campaign against jihadists in the country's troubled Tillaberi region, a probe into the deaths reported. This campaign was carried out earlier this year. The West African nation has suffered years of conflict with Islamic militants operating in the vast and inhospitable Sahel desert, with thousands of soldiers and civilians killed to date. The national armies of Niger and its neighbours Mali and Burkina Faso have been accused of war crimes in their response operations, including forced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. Niger's National Commission on Human Rights was investigating reports by Amnesty International and other rights groups that 102 civilians had gone missing in the western province between March 27 and April 2 after an army operation. Jihadist violence resulted in 4,000 deaths in Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso last year, the United Nations has said. The UN has condemned what it said was a spike in criminal acts by national armies in the Sahel at the beginning of this year, including more than 100 extrajudicial executions by the Malian army between January and March. Amnesty International reported in June that the armies of Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso had been responsible for nearly 200 disappearances in the space of a few months.

Niger soldiers executed dozens of civilians, probe says

President of France Emmanuel Macron on Sunday condemned the 'cowardly" attack on humanitarian workers in Niger and said he would do everything to shed light on the incident in which eight people died. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/six-french-tourists-among-eight-killed-by-gunmen-in-niger-319271">Also read: Six French tourists among eight killed by gunmen in Niger</a> 
 
The French President, who spoke with his Niger counterpart Mahamadou Issoufou, added that he was determined to help counter the "terrorist groups in the Sahel region".

On Sunday, gunmen had killed six French aid workers, a Nigerien guide and a driver in a wildlife park in Niger, according to officials in the West African country.

The group was attacked on Sunday in a giraffe reserve near Koure, a town about 65km (40 miles) from the capital, Niamey. There was no immediate claim of responsibility.

"They were intercepted and killed," Tidjani Ibrahim Katiella, the governor of Tillaberi region, told Reuters news agency. 
 
The French government has warned citizens against traveling outside of the capital of Niamey as militants linked to Boko Haram, Islamic State and al-Qaida still carry out attacks across the vast West African nation.

Niger borders several countries including Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad, Nigeria and Libya. Violence by groups linked to IS and al-Qaida is on the rise in the Sahel region.

France has deployed thousands of soldiers to help fight the growing insurgency there, and a local Sahel force made up of soldiers from Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, Chad and Mauritania has also been fighting the extremists.

(With inputs from agencies)

President of France Emmanuel Macron on Sunday condemned the 'cowardly" attack on humanitarian workers in Niger and said he would do everything to shed light on the incident in which eight people died.

President of France Emmanuel Macron on Sunday condemned the 'cowardly" attack on humanitarian workers in Niger and said he would do everything to shed light on the incident in which eight people died. Also read: Six French tourists among eight killed by gunmen in Niger The French President, who spoke with his Niger counterpart Mahamadou Issoufou, added that he was determined to help counter the "terrorist groups in the Sahel region". On Sunday, gunmen had killed six French aid workers, a Nigerien guide and a driver in a wildlife park in Niger, according to officials in the West African country. The group was attacked on Sunday in a giraffe reserve near Koure, a town about 65km (40 miles) from the capital, Niamey. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. "They were intercepted and killed," Tidjani Ibrahim Katiella, the governor of Tillaberi region, told Reuters news agency. The French government has warned citizens against traveling outside of the capital of Niamey as militants linked to Boko Haram, Islamic State and al-Qaida still carry out attacks across the vast West African nation. Niger borders several countries including Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad, Nigeria and Libya. Violence by groups linked to IS and al-Qaida is on the rise in the Sahel region. France has deployed thousands of soldiers to help fight the growing insurgency there, and a local Sahel force made up of soldiers from Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, Chad and Mauritania has also been fighting the extremists. (With inputs from agencies)

Macron condemns 'cowardly' attack in Niger, vows to fight 'terrorist groups in the Sahel region'

Emmanuel Macron condemns 'Cowardly' killing of aid workers in Niger | World News

Six French tourists, their local guide and driver have been killed by unidentified gunmen riding motorcycles in an area of southwestern Niger home to the last herd of West African giraffes.

Gunmen kill French tourists in southwestern Niger | World news

Six French tourists and their local guide and driver were killed Sunday by gunmen riding motorcycles in an area of southwestern Niger that is home to the last West African giraffes, officials said.

It is believed to be the first such attack on tourists in the area, a popular attraction in the former French colony thanks to its unique population of West African or Niger giraffes.

"There are eight dead: two Nigeriens including a guide and a driver, while the other six are French," the governor of the Tillaberi region told AFP.

"We are managing the situation, we will give more information later," Tidjani Ibrahim Katiella said, without indicating who was behind the attack.

A source close to the environmental services said the assault took place at around 11:30 am (1030 GMT) six kilometres (four miles) east of the town of Koure, which is an hour's drive from the capital Niamey.

"Most of the victims were shot... We found a magazine emptied of its cartridges at the scene," the source told AFP.

"We do not know the identity of the attackers but they came on motorcycles through the bush and waited for the arrival of the tourists."

The source added that the tourists' vehicle belonged to the French humanitarian organisation ACTED.

Grisly pictures seen by AFP of the scene showed bodies lying near a torched off-road vehicle, which had bullet holes in its rear window.

Around 20 years ago, a small herd of West African giraffes, a subspecies distinguished by its lighter colour, found a safe haven from poachers and predators in the Koure area.

Today they number in their hundreds and are a key tourist attraction, enjoying the protection of local people and conservation groups.&nbsp;

However the Tillaberi region is in a hugely unstable location, near the borders of Mali and Burkina Faso.&nbsp;

The region has become a hideout for Sahel jihadist groups such as the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS).

The use of motorcycles has been totally banned since January in an attempt to curb the movements of such jihadists.

Six French tourists and their local guide and driver were killed Sunday by gunmen riding motorcycles in an area of southwestern Niger that is home to the last West African giraffes, officials said.

Six French tourists and their local guide and driver were killed Sunday by gunmen riding motorcycles in an area of southwestern Niger that is home to the last West African giraffes, officials said. It is believed to be the first such attack on tourists in the area, a popular attraction in the former French colony thanks to its unique population of West African or Niger giraffes. "There are eight dead: two Nigeriens including a guide and a driver, while the other six are French," the governor of the Tillaberi region told AFP. "We are managing the situation, we will give more information later," Tidjani Ibrahim Katiella said, without indicating who was behind the attack. A source close to the environmental services said the assault took place at around 11:30 am (1030 GMT) six kilometres (four miles) east of the town of Koure, which is an hour's drive from the capital Niamey. "Most of the victims were shot... We found a magazine emptied of its cartridges at the scene," the source told AFP. "We do not know the identity of the attackers but they came on motorcycles through the bush and waited for the arrival of the tourists." The source added that the tourists' vehicle belonged to the French humanitarian organisation ACTED. Grisly pictures seen by AFP of the scene showed bodies lying near a torched off-road vehicle, which had bullet holes in its rear window. Around 20 years ago, a small herd of West African giraffes, a subspecies distinguished by its lighter colour, found a safe haven from poachers and predators in the Koure area. Today they number in their hundreds and are a key tourist attraction, enjoying the protection of local people and conservation groups. However the Tillaberi region is in a hugely unstable location, near the borders of Mali and Burkina Faso. The region has become a hideout for Sahel jihadist groups such as the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS). The use of motorcycles has been totally banned since January in an attempt to curb the movements of such jihadists.

Six French tourists among eight killed by gunmen in Niger

Nearly three million people in Niger, over half of whom are children, are suffering at the hands of various natural and man-made crises and are in need of humanitarian aid, the United Nations said on Wednesday.

In a statement, UNICEF cited "the risks posed by insecurity, malnutrition, recurrent disease epidemics and outbreaks, cyclical floods, droughts and displacement" as the causes behind a crisis threatening 2.9 million people, including 1.6 million children.

"Insecurity is spreading at a rapid pace in the central Sahel region," said Felicite Tchibindat, UNICEF's regional nutrition advisor, following a visit to the conflict-affected region of Diffa.

"Women and children are bearing the brunt of the violence.&nbsp;

"In already fragile host communities, the burden of forced displacement increases the vulnerability of children and communities and significantly affects their health, protection, nutrition and education."

Since 2015, Niger has struggled against a wave of jihadist attacks near the borders with Mali and Burkina Faso in the west, exacerbating needs in Tillaberi and Tahoua regions, where nearly 78,000 people have been displaced.

"Attacks against civilians in the Lake Chad region prevented 263,000 people in Diffa from returning to their homes," said the statement, adding that deteriorating security on the border with Nigeria has also resulted in the movement of tens of thousands of people.

Niger is home to nearly 450,000 refugees &nbsp;-- Nigerians, Malians and Burkinabe -- and internally displaced people, trying to escape jihadist violence or armed gangs, according to the UN.&nbsp;

Some refugees and displaced persons live in the midst of an already very poor population.

"In a context of constrained resources and limited social services, the communities that host displaced populations are showing extraordinary resilience and sharing the little they have," said Tchibindat.

"This truly is a great example that Nigeriens are showing to world."

On Monday, 15 women and five children were trampled to death in a stampede for food and money for refugees in the southeast of the country.

According to UN figures, jihadist attacks in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger left around 4,000 dead last year.

Nearly three million people in Niger, over half of whom are children, are suffering at the hands of various natural and man-made crises and are in need of humanitarian aid, the United Nations said on Wednesday.

Nearly three million people in Niger, over half of whom are children, are suffering at the hands of various natural and man-made crises and are in need of humanitarian aid, the United Nations said on Wednesday. In a statement, UNICEF cited "the risks posed by insecurity, malnutrition, recurrent disease epidemics and outbreaks, cyclical floods, droughts and displacement" as the causes behind a crisis threatening 2.9 million people, including 1.6 million children. "Insecurity is spreading at a rapid pace in the central Sahel region," said Felicite Tchibindat, UNICEF's regional nutrition advisor, following a visit to the conflict-affected region of Diffa. "Women and children are bearing the brunt of the violence. "In already fragile host communities, the burden of forced displacement increases the vulnerability of children and communities and significantly affects their health, protection, nutrition and education." Since 2015, Niger has struggled against a wave of jihadist attacks near the borders with Mali and Burkina Faso in the west, exacerbating needs in Tillaberi and Tahoua regions, where nearly 78,000 people have been displaced. "Attacks against civilians in the Lake Chad region prevented 263,000 people in Diffa from returning to their homes," said the statement, adding that deteriorating security on the border with Nigeria has also resulted in the movement of tens of thousands of people. Niger is home to nearly 450,000 refugees -- Nigerians, Malians and Burkinabe -- and internally displaced people, trying to escape jihadist violence or armed gangs, according to the UN. Some refugees and displaced persons live in the midst of an already very poor population. "In a context of constrained resources and limited social services, the communities that host displaced populations are showing extraordinary resilience and sharing the little they have," said Tchibindat. "This truly is a great example that Nigeriens are showing to world." On Monday, 15 women and five children were trampled to death in a stampede for food and money for refugees in the southeast of the country. According to UN figures, jihadist attacks in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger left around 4,000 dead last year.

Nearly three million in need of aid in Niger, UN says

They are cheap, made from components that are easily obtained and murderously effective.

Security experts say that in the arsenal of jihadist groups whose insurgency is shaking the Sahel state of Burkina Faso, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jihadists-kill-four-nigerian-troops-sources-263148">improvised explosive device</a> (IED) is one of the deadliest weapons.

"With 15,000-20,000 CFA francs ($25 / 23 euros to $34 / 30 euros), you've got an IED that can destroy something worth a thousand times more," a security source said.

"It's a poor man's weapon in an asymmetrical war."

Thousands of civilians and soldiers have died in violence across the Sahel which began when armed Islamists revolted in northern Mali in 2012.

The conflict has since spread to neighbouring <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/exclusive-mine-workers-demanded-more-protection-before-deadly-burkina-faso-attack-263092">Burkina Faso</a> as well as Niger, two of the world's poorest and most fragile countries.

"IEDs appeared in (Burkina Faso) in mid-2018. Since then, we have recorded 33 attacks with IEDs, claiming 133 lives," said Italian researcher Roberto Sollazzo.

Hidden in plastic to thwart metal detectors, packed with nails for a shrapnel effect, the IED is increasingly used in roadside ambushes.

On&nbsp;November 6, an attack on a convoy of Canadian mining company Semafo killed 38 people. The IED blew up a military escort vehicle before jihadist forces emerged from behind cover to machine-gun the buses.

Motorbike parts&nbsp;

"The point of an IED is that it has to be made cheaply, using locally available materials," Sollazzo said.

"Burkina is a nation of mopeds," he said, referring to a light motorcycle also known as a mobylette.

"There are 300,000 of them in the country. So many components of an IED can be taken from them without attracting the attention of the security forces."

Mopeds are cannibalised for their rubber tyres, which are used in parts of a simple pressure-plate switch that activates the bomb when a vehicle passes over it, and for their batteries, which ignite the detonator.

For fuses and detonators, the jihadists go to the same suppliers as artisanal gold-diggers who buy the materials to blast rocks at mining sites.

"A box of 166 detonators costs 600,000 CFA francs, which is 3,500 CFA francs for one detonator. It's 300,000 CFA for 250 metres (820 feet) of fuse wire. When you buy this stuff, nobody asks any questions," Sollazzo said.

"There's trafficking from Ghana for the gold-diggers. They can buy a package of dynamite, fuse and detonator for 5,000 CFA francs."

Dynamite or fertiliser bomb&nbsp;

Such kits are enough for the miners, who lack the means to buy in bulk.

"But what interests the jihadists most is the detonator," the security expert said.

The non-profit International Crisis Group (ICG) warned in a report in November that jihadist groups are taking a growing interest in artisanal mines as a "new source of finance, even a recruiting ground", with potential for training in the handling of explosive materials.

Apart from dynamite, IEDs may also use a mix of ammonium nitrate, a chemical found in fertiliser that is sold in Burkina Faso for 20,000 CFA francs for a 50-kilogramme (110-pound) bag&nbsp;and fuel oil, which again is scavenged from mopeds.

Sollazzo says that "the most complicated" aspect for bomb makers is getting the IED to explode.

"Mostly it's done with wire and a manual trigger," he said, while the security expert said Chinese-made remote-control devices were emerging that appear to have been brought in from neighbouring Mali.

They are cheap, made from components that are easily obtained and murderously effective. Security experts say that in the arsenal of jihadist groups whose insurgency is shaking the Sahel state of Burkina Faso, the improvised explosive device (IED) is one of the deadliest weapons.

They are cheap, made from components that are easily obtained and murderously effective. Security experts say that in the arsenal of jihadist groups whose insurgency is shaking the Sahel state of Burkina Faso, the improvised explosive device (IED) is one of the deadliest weapons. "With 15,000-20,000 CFA francs ($25 / 23 euros to $34 / 30 euros), you've got an IED that can destroy something worth a thousand times more," a security source said. "It's a poor man's weapon in an asymmetrical war." Thousands of civilians and soldiers have died in violence across the Sahel which began when armed Islamists revolted in northern Mali in 2012. The conflict has since spread to neighbouring Burkina Faso as well as Niger, two of the world's poorest and most fragile countries. "IEDs appeared in (Burkina Faso) in mid-2018. Since then, we have recorded 33 attacks with IEDs, claiming 133 lives," said Italian researcher Roberto Sollazzo. Hidden in plastic to thwart metal detectors, packed with nails for a shrapnel effect, the IED is increasingly used in roadside ambushes. On November 6, an attack on a convoy of Canadian mining company Semafo killed 38 people. The IED blew up a military escort vehicle before jihadist forces emerged from behind cover to machine-gun the buses. Motorbike parts "The point of an IED is that it has to be made cheaply, using locally available materials," Sollazzo said. "Burkina is a nation of mopeds," he said, referring to a light motorcycle also known as a mobylette. "There are 300,000 of them in the country. So many components of an IED can be taken from them without attracting the attention of the security forces." Mopeds are cannibalised for their rubber tyres, which are used in parts of a simple pressure-plate switch that activates the bomb when a vehicle passes over it, and for their batteries, which ignite the detonator. For fuses and detonators, the jihadists go to the same suppliers as artisanal gold-diggers who buy the materials to blast rocks at mining sites. "A box of 166 detonators costs 600,000 CFA francs, which is 3,500 CFA francs for one detonator. It's 300,000 CFA for 250 metres (820 feet) of fuse wire. When you buy this stuff, nobody asks any questions," Sollazzo said. "There's trafficking from Ghana for the gold-diggers. They can buy a package of dynamite, fuse and detonator for 5,000 CFA francs." Dynamite or fertiliser bomb Such kits are enough for the miners, who lack the means to buy in bulk. "But what interests the jihadists most is the detonator," the security expert said. The non-profit International Crisis Group (ICG) warned in a report in November that jihadist groups are taking a growing interest in artisanal mines as a "new source of finance, even a recruiting ground", with potential for training in the handling of explosive materials. Apart from dynamite, IEDs may also use a mix of ammonium nitrate, a chemical found in fertiliser that is sold in Burkina Faso for 20,000 CFA francs for a 50-kilogramme (110-pound) bag and fuel oil, which again is scavenged from mopeds. Sollazzo says that "the most complicated" aspect for bomb makers is getting the IED to explode. "Mostly it's done with wire and a manual trigger," he said, while the security expert said Chinese-made remote-control devices were emerging that appear to have been brought in from neighbouring Mali.

In Burkina Faso, 'poor man's bomb' reaps a bloody toll

Climate change threatens end of trail for Niger's nomadic herders

Thirteen French soldiers fighting jihadists in Mali were killed in an accident between two helicopters, the French presidency said on Tuesday, the single biggest loss of French troops in combat in the region since intervening there in 2013.

France has a 4,500-strong Barkhane force countering Islamist insurgencies in the Sahel region, where violence by militants linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State in the sparely-populated area has proliferated in recent years.

"The president announces with deep sadness the death of 13 French troops in Mali on the evening of November 25, in an accident between their two helicopters during a combat mission against jihadists," the statement from the president's office said.

The circumstances surrounding the accident were not immediately clear. France's Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly said the incident occurred while the helicopters were in flight.

The Defence Ministry said the helicopters involved were a Tiger and Cougar and the operation took place in central Mali.

"They were supporting commandos from the Barkhane force who were engaged with armed terrorists," the ministry said in a statement.

France, the former colonial power in the region, intervened in Mali six years ago to drive out Islamist militants who had occupied the north and still use swathes of the country as a launchpad for attacks across the largely desert region.

Paris has since kept troops in the region as part of Barkhane counter-terrorism operations, while western powers have provided funding to a regional force made up of soldiers from Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, Chad, and Mauritania.

France has been frustrated that it is taking the brunt of operations on the ground, although other European countries have provided logistical support, trainers and some special forces.

By reinforcing African forces, Paris sees an eventual exit strategy for what is its biggest foreign deployment, diplomats say.

Monday's deaths bring the total number of French soldiers killed in the Sahel to 28.

Thirteen French soldiers fighting jihadists in Mali were killed in an accident between two helicopters, the French presidency said on Tuesday, the single biggest loss of French troops in combat in the region since intervening there in 2013.

Thirteen French soldiers fighting jihadists in Mali were killed in an accident between two helicopters, the French presidency said on Tuesday, the single biggest loss of French troops in combat in the region since intervening there in 2013. France has a 4,500-strong Barkhane force countering Islamist insurgencies in the Sahel region, where violence by militants linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State in the sparely-populated area has proliferated in recent years. "The president announces with deep sadness the death of 13 French troops in Mali on the evening of November 25, in an accident between their two helicopters during a combat mission against jihadists," the statement from the president's office said. The circumstances surrounding the accident were not immediately clear. France's Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly said the incident occurred while the helicopters were in flight. The Defence Ministry said the helicopters involved were a Tiger and Cougar and the operation took place in central Mali. "They were supporting commandos from the Barkhane force who were engaged with armed terrorists," the ministry said in a statement. France, the former colonial power in the region, intervened in Mali six years ago to drive out Islamist militants who had occupied the north and still use swathes of the country as a launchpad for attacks across the largely desert region. Paris has since kept troops in the region as part of Barkhane counter-terrorism operations, while western powers have provided funding to a regional force made up of soldiers from Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, Chad, and Mauritania. France has been frustrated that it is taking the brunt of operations on the ground, although other European countries have provided logistical support, trainers and some special forces. By reinforcing African forces, Paris sees an eventual exit strategy for what is its biggest foreign deployment, diplomats say. Monday's deaths bring the total number of French soldiers killed in the Sahel to 28.

Thirteen French helicopter troops killed in Mali combat operation

Floods in southeast Niger have forced 23,000 people to flee their homes since early October, officials said Saturday, threatening a new humanitarian crisis in a region already wracked by Boko Haram Islamist violence.

Heavy rains have caused the Komadougou Yobe river that flows through the semi-desert Diffa region into Lake Chad to burst its banks, inundating villages, flooding fields and damaging crops.

Two villages near the city of Diffa were "completely submerged" and 2,500 households have been forced to move, according to national radio the Voice of the Sahel.

Some 400 families were sheltering in a gym in the city, it added.

"We have been fighting for days to stop the water rising, but it's not working," Amadou Issa, a rice farmer, told AFP. "The sandbags we've been using to keep the water out are completely underwater."

Extreme weather events are common in Niger, one of the world's poorest countries.

Between June and September, 57 people were killed and more than 130,000 affected by flooding according to government figures.

The capital Niamey was hit badly in September, with the waters of the Niger river, the third biggest in Africa, rising to a level not seen in more than 50 years and swamping parts of the city.

Last year, drought and flooding led to food shortages in a crisis which, exacerbated by jihadist violence, left more than 10 percent of the population needing humanitarian aid.

Niger, along with neighbouring Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali and Mauritania are also struggling against escalating attacks by armed Islamists.

According to the UN's human rights agency UNHCR, the Diffa region is home to almost 120,000 refugees and 109,000 internally displaced people.

Floods in southeast Niger have forced 23,000 people to flee their homes since early October, officials said Saturday, threatening a new humanitarian crisis in a region already wracked by Boko Haram Islamist violence.

Floods in southeast Niger have forced 23,000 people to flee their homes since early October, officials said Saturday, threatening a new humanitarian crisis in a region already wracked by Boko Haram Islamist violence. Heavy rains have caused the Komadougou Yobe river that flows through the semi-desert Diffa region into Lake Chad to burst its banks, inundating villages, flooding fields and damaging crops. Two villages near the city of Diffa were "completely submerged" and 2,500 households have been forced to move, according to national radio the Voice of the Sahel. Some 400 families were sheltering in a gym in the city, it added. "We have been fighting for days to stop the water rising, but it's not working," Amadou Issa, a rice farmer, told AFP. "The sandbags we've been using to keep the water out are completely underwater." Extreme weather events are common in Niger, one of the world's poorest countries. Between June and September, 57 people were killed and more than 130,000 affected by flooding according to government figures. The capital Niamey was hit badly in September, with the waters of the Niger river, the third biggest in Africa, rising to a level not seen in more than 50 years and swamping parts of the city. Last year, drought and flooding led to food shortages in a crisis which, exacerbated by jihadist violence, left more than 10 percent of the population needing humanitarian aid. Niger, along with neighbouring Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali and Mauritania are also struggling against escalating attacks by armed Islamists. According to the UN's human rights agency UNHCR, the Diffa region is home to almost 120,000 refugees and 109,000 internally displaced people.

Niger floods force 23,000 from their homes

India has extended a grant of $15 million to Niger to help it organise the African Union (AU) summit.&nbsp;

The summit will take place from July 7-8&nbsp;in its capital Niamey. The grant assistance was handed over to Niger deputy foreign minister Lamido Ousseini Bala Goga Salamatou by the Indian envoy to Niger Rajesh Agarwal.&nbsp;

This is the first time the country is hosting the AU summit and India's support was in response to a specific request made by the Niger government. The AU summit is expected to launch the historic African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The Indian assistance comes even as the government&nbsp;increases its engagement with the continent.&nbsp;

New Delhi in October 2015 had hosted the India-Africa summit that had seen&nbsp;maximum participation of African head of states and governments. Niger President Issoufou Mahamadou had participated in the 2015 summit and also visited India in March 2018 to attend the Founding Conference of International Solar Alliance.&nbsp;

India opened its mission in Niamey in 2009 and has provided Lines of Credit worth $ 96.54 million to Niger for projects in transport, electrification, solar energy and potable drinking water. &nbsp;

New Delhi is also establishing Mahatma Gandhi International Convention Centre (MGICC) in the country and is likely to host meetings associated with the upcoming AU summit.

India has extended a grant of $15 million to Niger to help it organise the African Union (AU) summit. The summit will take place from July 7-8 in its capital Niamey.

India has extended a grant of $15 million to Niger to help it organise the African Union (AU) summit. The summit will take place from July 7-8 in its capital Niamey. The grant assistance was handed over to Niger deputy foreign minister Lamido Ousseini Bala Goga Salamatou by the Indian envoy to Niger Rajesh Agarwal. This is the first time the country is hosting the AU summit and India's support was in response to a specific request made by the Niger government. The AU summit is expected to launch the historic African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The Indian assistance comes even as the government increases its engagement with the continent. New Delhi in October 2015 had hosted the India-Africa summit that had seen maximum participation of African head of states and governments. Niger President Issoufou Mahamadou had participated in the 2015 summit and also visited India in March 2018 to attend the Founding Conference of International Solar Alliance. India opened its mission in Niamey in 2009 and has provided Lines of Credit worth $ 96.54 million to Niger for projects in transport, electrification, solar energy and potable drinking water. New Delhi is also establishing Mahatma Gandhi International Convention Centre (MGICC) in the country and is likely to host meetings associated with the upcoming AU summit.

India extends $15 million to Niger for African Union summit

A US army vehicle was damaged in a mine <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-global-round-up-niger-fuel-tanker-explosion-kills-at-least-58-people-216595">explosion in western Niger</a>, but there were no fatalities, and the US military was investigating whether the incident was hostile, embassy and local security forces said on Sunday.

The incident occurred in Ouallam in the Tillaberi region, not far from the border with Mali, where four US soldiers and five Niger soldiers were killed in an ambush in 2017, according to the sources.

"A US mine-resistant, the ambush-protected all-terrain vehicle was damaged in Niger" on Saturday, the US embassy in Niamey said in a statement.

Ouallam is located about 100 kilometres (62 miles) from Niamey and is home to a major training camp of the Nigerien army where soldiers are trained to participate in the UN Mission in Mali, known as Minusma.

"The incident occurred outside a weapons range, so it is possible that non-hostile factors were the cause of the damage," it said. "We're still looking to confirm that element."

The US mission in Niger has been heavily scrutinised in the wake of the 2017 attack.

In that October 4 ambush, US special forces soldiers and Nigerien troops were attacked by fighters affiliated with the Islamic State group and equipped with small arms, grenades and trucks mounted with guns.&nbsp;

The US Pentagon has remained tight-lipped about the circumstances surrounding the ambush and the nature of the mission in Niger.

The US operates an aerial drone base in Agadez that provides surveillance of Boko Haram fighters and others allied with Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) that operate along borders with Libya, Mali and Nigeria.

Niamey has also given the US permission to base armed drones on its soil.

On May 14, 2019, 28 Niger soldiers were killed near the village of Tongo Tongo when they were ambushed "by heavily armed terrorists," according to the Niger government.&nbsp;

A US army vehicle was damaged in a mine explosion in western Niger, but there were no fatalities, and the US military was investigating whether the incident was hostile, embassy and local security forces said on Sunday.

A US army vehicle was damaged in a mine explosion in western Niger, but there were no fatalities, and the US military was investigating whether the incident was hostile, embassy and local security forces said on Sunday. The incident occurred in Ouallam in the Tillaberi region, not far from the border with Mali, where four US soldiers and five Niger soldiers were killed in an ambush in 2017, according to the sources. "A US mine-resistant, the ambush-protected all-terrain vehicle was damaged in Niger" on Saturday, the US embassy in Niamey said in a statement. Ouallam is located about 100 kilometres (62 miles) from Niamey and is home to a major training camp of the Nigerien army where soldiers are trained to participate in the UN Mission in Mali, known as Minusma. "The incident occurred outside a weapons range, so it is possible that non-hostile factors were the cause of the damage," it said. "We're still looking to confirm that element." The US mission in Niger has been heavily scrutinised in the wake of the 2017 attack. In that October 4 ambush, US special forces soldiers and Nigerien troops were attacked by fighters affiliated with the Islamic State group and equipped with small arms, grenades and trucks mounted with guns. The US Pentagon has remained tight-lipped about the circumstances surrounding the ambush and the nature of the mission in Niger. The US operates an aerial drone base in Agadez that provides surveillance of Boko Haram fighters and others allied with Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) that operate along borders with Libya, Mali and Nigeria. Niamey has also given the US permission to base armed drones on its soil. On May 14, 2019, 28 Niger soldiers were killed near the village of Tongo Tongo when they were ambushed "by heavily armed terrorists," according to the Niger government.

United States army vehicle damaged in mine explosion in Niger

niger

Niger, News on Niger, stories on Niger, articles on Niger, Niger stories at Wion, Niger news, Niger latest news