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Article by Jean Baptiste Gihugu, Project Communications Officer – EMEAA

MARADI, NIGER – On April 3, 2025, RET Germany and partners officially launched the CIGABA (“Carry on” in Haoussa, a language spoken in West and Central Africa) project in Maradi, Niger, marking a significant step toward enhancing livelihoods and fostering stability in the Niger-Nigeria border region. Funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) with a budget of €9.2 million (approximately 6 billion CFA), the four-year initiative (2024–2028) will empower vulnerable families and youth across six communes in the Guidan-Roumdji and Madarounfa departments.

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A Holistic Approach to Sustainable Development

The CIGABA project integrates vocational training, entrepreneurship support, and climate-resilient agricultural and livestock practices to improve food security and economic opportunities. Additionally, it promotes social cohesion through conflict prevention training, life skills development, and the establishment of community mediation committees, fostering peaceful coexistence among host communities, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and refugees.

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High-Level Endorsement & Local Commitment

The launch event brought together government officials, local authorities, community leaders, and implementing partners, underscoring the project’s alignment with Niger’s development priorities. Lt. Col. Moussa Garba, Delegate Administrator of Maradi, highlighted its significance: “This initiative directly addresses the everyday challenges we face, particularly in inclusive and sustainable development.”

Murielle Ndikumazambo, RET Germany’s Country Director, reinforced the collaborative spirit of the project: “CIGABA reflects our shared commitment to supporting the Government of Niger in uplifting vulnerable women and youth through practical, locally adapted solutions.”

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Strategic Partnerships for Greater Impact

Implemented in partnership with ASB, KARKARA, and AB2M, the project is expected to benefit over 18,000 direct and 90,000 indirect recipients, creating lasting economic and social transformation in the region.

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