As Malian refugees enter their third year of stay in Niger, UNHCR is progressively looking to implement mid to long-term initiatives that capitalize on the skillsets of persons of concerns living in urban areas. In this regard, several self-reliance and community empowerment projects are planned in 2015, in partnership with the Government of Niger. Initiatives that encourage peaceful coexistence between host communities and refugees are also planned as the Office explores more opportunities for collaboration with concerned host communities.
In addition, UNHCR intends to continue extending assistance in the area of domestic energy through gas distribution. UNHCR will also implement a new assistance strategy through cash-based initiatives that requires considerable initial investments. All these initiatives will help respond to protection, energy and self-reliance requirements for refugee’s well-being.