Niger: Price stabilization, a priority for the authorities
In Niger, two years after the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP) came to power, the fight against the high cost of living remains one of the main concerns for the people of Niger. While several measures have been implemented to improve citizens’ daily lives, the actual impact on local markets remains mixed.
The authorities have launched multiple initiatives to support the most vulnerable groups, particularly through subsidies, price regulation of essential goods, and strengthened supply chain monitoring. These efforts have helped curb certain price surges—especially for local products such as maize, peanuts, and beans—which have shown relative stability in several regions of the country.
However, urban markets, especially those in Niamey like Dolé and Wadata, continue to see significant price increases for other essential goods. The fluctuation in prices of vegetables, condiments, and both imported and locally processed products is putting considerable pressure on household purchasing power. Vendors are struggling to sell their stock, leading to declining quality of fresh goods and a general drop in consumption.
Several factors are driving this situation: seasonal variations in supply, rising transportation costs, reliance on imports for some products, and a slowdown in trade routes. Even traditionally affordable items like Agadez onions or moringa are experiencing noticeable price hikes.
Despite this difficult context, the government’s commitment to controlling inflation remains evident. The Agricultural Market Information System (SIMA) continues to regularly publish price data, enabling traders and consumers to anticipate market fluctuations.
Improving purchasing power, however, requires coordinated, long-term, and inclusive action—particularly through the revival of local production, reduction of logistics costs, and rigorous monitoring of distribution channels. Expectations remain high, but the foundations for a gradual response are now being laid.
