by Fati Yabilan, Linking, Learning, and Amplifier Officer, Voice Niger

Eight years of hard work, eight years of making connections – yes, eight seasons of sharing and learning. With more than 45 local Grantee partners, Voice has shown that the impossible can become reality. Niamey, the capital of Niger, was decked out to host this momentous event. In a whirlwind of positive energy, the Grantee partners and rights-holders merged their voices, mixing the local language with signs, weaving a tapestry of diversity. The theme resonated: Celebrating Inclusiveness.

Niger’s Linking and Learning event, entitled ‘Celebrating Inclusion’, took place from 24 to 25 May 2024. More than a retrospective, it was a vibrant celebration, a tribute to eight years of amplifying the voices of vulnerable communities in Niger. In a context of shrinking civic space, this event illuminated Voice‘s successes. But it was not just a celebration of achievements. It was a space for reflection, a crossroads for shared learning.

Grantee partners took the floor, revealing the impact Voice has had on their communities. Presentations, discussions, testimonials, plays, film screenings – a symphony of interactive activities punctuated the event. At the heart of this mosaic of inclusion and diversity, we heard the vibrant voices of rights holders.

But this gathering was also a springboard to the future. How can the impact of the Programme be sustained? How can we equip participants to build the capacity of marginalised communities? The objective was clear: to create an environment where everyone feels listened to, respected and empowered to contribute.

On the final day, the Dutch embassy was praised for its crucial role in supporting Voice. Grantee partners shared their stories, their successes and their challenges. Chancelleries and international organisations took part in the exhibition, inspiring action. Because beyond the Programme, the commitment persists. At Voice we believe in the development of the communities we work with, we believe in the spirit of collaboration and Lessons Learnt. We create links so that our heritage travels and endures throughout the world.

Committed Art in Niger: A Powerful Means of Advocacy

Art, beyond its aesthetic aspect, has the Power to transcend the canvas to become a reflection of our society. Engaged art emerges as a transformative force, addressing social, political and environmental issues with unique emotional power.

In the context of shrinking civic space, art becomes an essential tool for sparking conversations and promoting social change. Grantee partners of Voice in Niger have embraced artistic creativity to address crucial social issues. Here’s how art has been transformed into a dynamic means of Advocacy:

Short Film: The Linking and Learning Facilitator produced a short film called ‘A Beautiful World’ to address the issue of inclusion of People with disabilities in Niger. The film explores inclusion and tackles issues such as human rights, gender equality and social justice. It was screened on Linking and Learning Day, sparking discussion and raising awareness.

Song: Musician and lyricist Ham Di Mallam wrote a song for Linking and Learning. Its lyrics reflect the frameworks for exchange and learning created to address issues such as access to basic social services, and the political participation of young people, women and people with disabilities. This song is played at Voice’s Linking and Learning events in Niger.

Social theatre: The ACA RUMBU association, winner of the 1st NOW-Us! prize, has created a play depicting social problems linked to the living conditions of young girls at school and in the workplace, especially when they have a disability. These open-air performances attract large audiences and provide a platform for discussing issues such as women’s rights, governance and Inclusiveness.

Exhibitions: The Grantee partners’ stands were decked out in exhibitions showcasing their projects and proposals for scaling them up. However, what was even more striking was to see the ‘Better Living with Disability’ stand empty, with no images or audio. This demonstrates the sensitivity of working with people in prisons in Niger.

The Voice Impact Tree: Honouring the Faces of Our Adventure

The Voice Impact Tree is a meaningful moment shared with Grantee partners and rights holders. It is used to decorate the tree with the faces of the people who have left their mark on this wonderful adventure. You’ll find the faces of Voice staff, Grantee partners, rights holders and communities who have welcomed this Project with open arms. This symbolic tree reflects our commitment to social change and the positive transformation we are creating together.