Terrain
Predominately desert plains and sand dunes; flat to rolling plains in south; hills in north
Climate
Desert; mosty hot, dry, dusty; tropical in extreme south
People
Nationality: Nigerien(s)
Population: 17,466,172 (July 2014 est.)
Languages: French (official), Hausa, Djerma
Religions
Muslim 80%, other (includes indigenous beliefs and Christian) 20%
Economy
Niger is a landlocked, Sub-Saharan nation, whose economy centers on subsistence crops, livestock, and some of the world's largest uranium deposits. Agriculture contributes about one-third of GDP and provides livelihood for about nine-tenths of the population. Drought, desertification, and strong population growth have undercut the economy. The economy in recent years has been hurt by terrorist activity and kidnappings near its uranium mines and instability in Mali.
Living Conditions
Niger remains a very poor country, struggling to become stronger and more self-sufficient. Most rural communities have no electricity. In many villages, women still draw water daily from the same shared well. Most people in rural areas cannot go to a hospital or clinic. Almost one-third of Niger's children do not reach the age of five.
Government
Republic
US Military Presence/Support