Andrew comes from a Tamajaq family. The Tamajaq are a nomadic tribe living in the Tchin-Tabaraden region of Niger. Being shepherds, the Tamajaq people are dependent on their animals for their livelihood. Many animals, particularly cattle, have died this last year due to lack of pasture. On a recent trip home, Andrew saw more animal carcasses than he has seen since the last big drought in 1984. But still the question; what to do? Food distribution can and does help, but only in the short term. A long term solution is needed: the answer? Goats!

‘Distributing goats to nomads is of great value, as they can use them for milk, and also sell them to buy food.’ says Rachel. ‘Goats reproduce fairly quickly and are hardy animals. A small amount of food distribution will prevent families from selling their livestock immediately to buy food, giving them a chance to breed their animals.’

The aim of the project that Andrew and Rachel set up was to identify families in need and get the necessary aid to them. An immediate appeal raised over £2,500. This money was converted to 145 goats, 32 sacks of rice, 32 sacks of wheat flour and 320 litres of oil.

Connection with many of the identified families was made at the weekly Sunday market at Tahoua, the nearest large town to Tchin-Tabaraden. These families were then provided with goats and food on the spot. However, some families had to be found in the bush, so Andrew and his team made a 170km (over 100 miles) return trip over rough terrain looking for these families.

And the result? Let Andrew put it in his own words: ‘A total of 55 families (that’s 178 children and 111 adults) are now in a far better position to face the coming year. They will be able to breed the animals they have and sell the kid goats to buy food. The goats that breed will provide milk for 2 months after giving birth and, as the Tamajaq saying goes, “Aman i man, ax i suder” (water is life, milk is food).’

Andrew and Rachel hope to repeat this project as soon as they can, as more families still need help. They also want to set up a ‘grain bank’ in Tchin-Tabaraden so that immediate food aid can be given whenever there is a crisis (and before animals, much less people, start dying) – for more information see www.sim.co.uk