In Baroua, his village, 35-year-old Issa Boulou Mamadou, was not spared from these conflicts. Following an attack, this dedicated farmer was compelled to flee with his wife and six children to an internally displaced people camp at the Awaridi site in Diffa. "The region wasn't stable, and we'd been through a lot of difficult times in recent years," he recalls.
At that time, for Issa Boulou Mamadou and many other Nigeriens, the keyword was "resilience," as they awaited the arrival of better days. In 2021, during the first phase of the return organized by the Nigerien authorities, he voluntarily decided to return to Baroua to start a new life. This fresh start was made possible through the Stabilization Project supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Within this project's framework, Issa Boulou Mamadou received comprehensive training in plumbing, a profession vastly different from his years spent toiling in the fields. "The project allowed me to choose a training program to learn a new trade. I chose plumbing. I never imagined I would come this far," he recounts. He adds, "I take pride in my work now."
Being of Service to the Community
Today, the villagers of Baroua can rely on him whenever they encounter plumbing issues. Thanks to his efforts, Issa Boulou Mamadou's small business is starting to gain recognition, particularly since he is the only plumber in the village. Every day, at any hour, this determined young entrepreneur traverses the sandy streets of Baroua, repairing leaks for his neighbors or installing faucets in their homes. "What truly resonates with me about this profession is the profound sense of community service it entails," he smiles.
Furthermore, working as a plumber has improved his quality of life.
"I have a good job, I can pay my bills, and most importantly, I can take care of my family. It was not possible before. Now, my children have access to education, and happiness prevails within our household."
Issa Boulou Mamadou, Plumber
Issa Boulou Mamadou's journey is a testament to the transformative power of initiatives like the Stabilization Project, which not only provide vocational training but also empower individuals to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities. Through such projects, a brighter future is being forged for Nigeriens in the face of adversity.
An Essential Project for Baroua
The Stabilization Project went beyond providing him with vocational training; it also supplied him with materials and construction supplies to rehabilitate his house, including corrugated sheets, square tubes, and rafters. This assistance was extended to numerous residents of Baroua who suffered significant material damage during the episodes of violence that plagued the region. Moreover, it spearheaded the construction of several vital infrastructures for the entire village, such as a health center, public latrines, a hydraulic pump, and even a market. These initiatives have allowed life to gradually regain its footing in this scarred village. "Thanks to the Stabilization Project, we now live with a greater sense of peace. We can finally enjoy tranquility," asserts Issa Boulou Mamadou. Furthermore, his children can now attend school, which underwent refurbishment through the project and recently reopened after a five-year closure.
In Baroua, thoughts are focused on the future, with Issa Boulou Mamadou and his family leading the charge. They harbor hopes that peace and stability will become the norm in the region. "I love my profession so much that I hope my eldest son will become a plumber like me. It's a promising career." Indeed, as the village continues to develop and modernize, the demand for plumbing services will only increase, greatly benefiting Issa Boulou Mamadou.
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