Central Sahel: a deepening humanitarian crisis for millions of children

The Central Sahel region continues to grapple with a dire humanitarian situation. Across Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali, an estimated 7.5 million children are in urgent need of aid, even with some advances in health, education, and civil registration.

UNICEF urges global action for Central Sahel

Following a two-week assessment mission in the area, Ted Chaiban, UNICEF’s Deputy Executive Director, highlighted that the crisis in Central Sahel remains largely overlooked on the international stage.

He characterized the region as one where populations demonstrate remarkable resilience, yet are simultaneously enduring the persistent effects of widespread insecurity, escalating climate disruptions, and profound socio-economic challenges.

Displacement, violence, and closed schools exacerbate crisis

Data compiled by UNICEF indicates that over 3.6 million individuals have been forced to abandon their homes due to ongoing violence. Furthermore, the United Nations has documented more than 1,500 severe violations impacting children, including instances of killings, abductions, and forced recruitment into armed factions.

The educational sector is also significantly impacted by this crisis. By 2025, over 8,400 schools became inaccessible, denying countless children their right to learn and increasing their vulnerability to illness, psychological trauma, and overall hardship.