The World Bank has approved $400 million to support a major road infrastructure project in southern Niger, aimed at boosting economic connectivity, climate resilience, and access to essential services. The announcement was made in a statement released by the institution on May 19.
The funding package comprises a $380 million credit and a $20 million grant from the International Development Association (IDA). The project will focus on rehabilitating the Maradi-Zinder stretch of National Road 1 (RN1) and modernising 525 kilometres of rural and feeder roads across the region.
According to the World Bank, the RN1 is a critical economic corridor for Niger, linking the populous regions of Maradi and Zinder and serving more than 16 million people across Niger and neighboring Nigeria.
The RN1 between Maradi and Zinder is the country’s economic engine. Thanks to its network of secondary roads, it serves more than 16 million people in Niger and Nigeria,” said Han Fraeters, World Bank Country Manager for Niger.
The six-year project will improve infrastructure and introduce reforms to strengthen the management and long-term maintenance of the road network. It will additionally fund studies for potential future investments. The World Bank noted that 10% of the financing is being mobilised through IDA’s dedicated window for refugees and host communities, underlining the project’s social inclusion goals.
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