Photo © RET Germany

Article by RET Global Communications

MARADI, NIGER – The Maradi region continues to face significant challenges due to the high concentration of refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and host communities. These groups often struggle with persistent structural vulnerabilities, leaving women, children, and persons with disabilities exposed to heightened risks of exploitation and violence. In response, the 2025 Protection Program, implemented by RET in partnership with UNHCR, has successfully deployed an integrated, person-centered strategy to reinforce the local protection environment.

A Comprehensive Response Strategy

RET’s approach in 2025 focused on three main pillars: Prevention, Response, and Community empowerment. By operating in “Villages of Opportunity” such as Garin Kaka and Chadakori, as well as host villages like Guidan Alkali, we ensured that essential services reached those in the most precarious situations. The program combined high-quality case management with structured awareness campaigns to strengthen the resilience of local protection mechanisms.

Photo © RET Germany

Key Achievements in 2025

The impact of these interventions is evident in the numbers. RET successfully managed 38 GBV incidents, with a strong emphasis on a survivor-centered approach that restores dignity. Child protection was another major priority, with 957 children benefiting from Child-Friendly Spaces, which provided a safe environment for psychosocial support and the prevention of neglect.

Furthermore, the project prioritized People with Specific Needs (PBS). By identifying and assisting 102 individuals with disabilities or other specific vulnerabilities, RET provided 88 material aids and over 100 referrals to specialized services. These actions were not just about immediate relief; they were about stabilizing complex situations to prevent long-term social exclusion.

Looking Toward the Future

As we look past 2025, our strength lies in our ability to transform community mechanisms into sustainable levers for local resilience. By emphasizing prevention, economic empowerment, and inter-agency coordination, RET and its partners are building a foundation for long-term safety and inclusion in Maradi. The success of this year proves that when protection services are integrated and community-led, they can produce tangible, lasting change.

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