The United Nations declared its intention to restart delivering humanitarian aid and evacuating personnel in Niger following the ruling junta’s decision to lift domestic flight constraints.
According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the national aviation authorities in Niger conveyed the removal of restrictions for domestic flights, allowing operations to resume immediately.
OCHA emphasized that this lift on domestic flight limitations would enable the monthly distribution of about 2.4 metric tonnes of medical supplies and essential aid, in addition to facilitating crucial medical and security evacuations for humanitarian workers.
Despite the positive development, the UN agency acknowledged anticipated challenges in fueling their aircraft for operations within the country.
In August, following the coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, the UN had committed to sustaining aid efforts in Niger.
However, key Western nations, including France, the United States, and the European Union, suspended aid to Niger post the July coup.
Highlighting the critical dependency of around 4.3 million Nigeriens on humanitarian assistance, the UN emphasized the significance of resuming these operations for the affected population.
Source-BBC
