Canada suspends direct development assistance to the Government of Niger

August 5, 2023 - Ottawa, Ontario- Global Affairs Canada

The attempted coup d'état on July 26 is a serious threat to democracy and stability in Niger and the Sahel. Undermining the rule of law threatens the democratically elected government’s progress towards peace, stability and development in Niger.

In response to the attempted coup d’état in Niger, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development announced today that Canada will suspend development assistance that directly supports the Government of Niger.

Canada reiterates its solidarity with the people of Niger and its support for democracy, peace, inclusive governance and the rule of law. In the current context, it would be impossible to maintain direct support to the Government of Niger while ensuring an effective and intentional use of funds. Since October 2020, Canada has had a bilateral development cooperation program with Niger, which was expected to reach an annual budget of $10 million/year by 2026. The program disbursed $2.71 million in 2021-22.

This suspension will encompass Canada’s direct budgetary support to the Government of Niger. Canadian health, education, economic and gender equality assistance to the poorest and most vulnerable populations will continue.

Canada supports the mediation efforts of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). We call on those responsible for the coup to release President Bazoum and his family and restore the democratically elected government.

Canadians in Niger in need of emergency consular assistance can contact the Embassy of Canada in Bamako, Mali at +223 44 98 04 50. They may also contact Global Affairs Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Centre by phone at +1 613 996 8885 (collect calls are accepted where available), by text message at +1 613 686 3658 or through Telegram at Canada Emergency Abroad, WhatsApp at +1 613 909 8881 or Signal at +1 613 909 8087. They can also send an email to sos@international.gc.ca or bmakoCS@international.gc.ca.