UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Ted Chaiban has warned of a worsening humanitarian situation in the Central Sahel following a recent visit to Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali. He described the region as one of both strong potential and severe vulnerability, where insecurity, climate shocks, and economic instability continue to disrupt the lives of millions of children.
Highlighting recent violence in Mali, Chaiban said renewed attacks by armed groups underscore the fragile conditions facing children, including loss of life and ongoing threats to safety. UN officials, including the UN Secretary-General and the Emergency Relief Coordinator, have also condemned the violence and stressed the importance of protecting civilians and ensuring access to essential services.
Despite the crisis, Chaiban noted signs of resilience across the region, with more than 3.6 million people displaced due to conflict and instability. He observed that in some communities, markets are reopening, social support networks remain active, and children continue to attend school and play, reflecting local determination to maintain normal life amid hardship.
During meetings with national leaders in Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali, officials reaffirmed commitments to prioritising children in national policies and strengthening social cohesion. Chaiban noted reforms such as improved birth registration systems in Niger, increased budget allocations for education and health in Burkina Faso, and rising immunisation coverage in Mali, all of which are contributing to improved access to essential services.
However, he warned that the overall situation remains extremely serious, with more than 1,500 grave violations against children reported, including killings, abductions, and recruitment by armed groups. In addition, over 8,400 schools were inaccessible in 2025, severely limiting access to education and exposing children to increased risks of illness, trauma, and long-term developmental challenges.
UNICEF continues to support governments across the Sahel in delivering health, education, water, and child protection services. Chaiban emphasised that strengthening local systems and community resilience is key to improving outcomes and ensuring that children’s needs remain central to governance and recovery efforts.
He concluded by urging the international community not to ignore the worsening conditions in the region, stressing that millions of children require urgent humanitarian assistance. He warned that children’s resilience should not be mistaken for stability, and called for immediate action to prevent further deterioration of their living conditions.
