A breath of hope for the children of Torodi: the impact of the “Friends of Children” space

The Torodi department, located in the Tillabéri region of Niger, has been facing a persistent security crisis for several years. Armed attacks, forced displacement of populations, and instability have profoundly disrupted the lives of local communities. Children, in particular, suffer the most severe consequences: loss of bearings, interruption of schooling, psychological stress, and lack of safe spaces to play and develop.

In this difficult context, World Vision Niger, through the project “Integrated emergency & recovery assistance to conflict-affected populations in Niger,” has implemented several interventions to help children. One of the most notable is the creation of the “Child-Friendly Space” in Torodi, a play and recreation center designed to provide children with a safe, inclusive, and stimulating place.

Children rediscovering their smiles

Ousmane Hassane, 14, a 9th grader, has been attending the center for three weeks:

"I'm really happy to come here. I get to see a lot of my friends and we have a great time together. There are lots of different games to play. Before, I only knew about soccer. Here, I'm discovering trampolining, basketball... and I play with children from different neighborhoods, including internally displaced children."

Sadiya, 10, a third-grade student, is discovering the space for the first time:

“What I like most is the swing. I feel good when I climb on it. I’ve met up with my friends from the neighborhood and also my classmates. Today is a beautiful day for me. I’ll come back every day.”

A space for integration and learning

The Children's Space is not just about games. It is also a place for learning, awareness-raising, and social cohesion. Toumbandi Pana Nouhou, a monitor and internally displaced person from Makalondi, says: "The CFS is a place for integration. Local children, internally displaced persons, and Burkinabe refugees come together here and form friendships. We have been trained by World Vision in child management, game facilitation, first aid, and mental health. Today, more than 300 children participate regularly."

Ramatou Boubacar Amadou, a supervisor at the center, adds: “Since it opened, the number of participants has been steadily increasing. The children really enjoy it here. They are supervised in small groups playing games and learning in classrooms. Thanks to this space, they can stretch their legs, have fun, and discover new things.”

A lasting impact on children's resilience

The “Friends of Children” space has become a real emotional and social refuge for the children of Torodi. It allows them to escape from the routine of insecurity, rebuild themselves psychologically, develop social skills, and regain a part of their childhood.

Thanks to the commitment of World Vision Niger, this center embodies hope, resilience, and solidarity in a context where children need attention and protection more than ever.