Honorable Amadou Seyni Magagi, Chef de canton de Harikanassou, has emphasized the importance of youth involvement in the development of Niger. In an interview with Le Sahel, Magagi highlighted the need for a youth that works diligently for the country's progress, rather than simply voicing concerns without taking action. He noted that the canton, located in the Boboye region, faces socio-security pressures but has managed to maintain peace and social cohesion.
Magagi explained that traditional leaders, including himself, play a crucial role in promoting peace and development in their respective areas. They work closely with the government to mobilize resources and supervise local situations. He stressed that in this period of refoundation, it is essential for leaders to prioritize the preservation of their country, as they have no alternative. Magagi also emphasized the need for collective action to address external threats.
The canton of Harikanassou is characterized by harmony between women and young people, with Islam playing a significant role in promoting unity. Magagi mentioned that the community regularly gathers to recite the Quran, and women's groups, known as malamas, have contributed to strengthening the faith of community members. He also highlighted the economic benefits of women's involvement in agriculture and small-scale entrepreneurship.
According to Magagi, the traditional leadership's strength lies in its connection to the local community, particularly within families. The population tends to obey traditional leaders more readily than law enforcement agencies, as they are seen as part of the community. He noted that each village has its own organization, and while the Samaria system was previously used for collective action, young people now tend to focus on making noise through media rather than taking practical action.
Magagi expressed his desire to see young people engaged in productive activities that contribute to the country's development. He contrasted this with the current trend of young people merely voicing concerns without taking concrete action. He emphasized that the canton of Harikanassou has historically enjoyed good relations between the population and authorities, with Islam serving as a unifying force.
In the context of the current mobilization efforts, Magagi noted that the canton of Harikanassou is committed to supporting the government's resolutions and aligning with the vision of the Head of State. He mentioned that traditional leaders have taken a solemn engagement to support authorities through proximity sensitization. The government has also promulgated an ordinance on general mobilization, which aims to rally the nation in the face of security challenges.
Magagi concluded by highlighting the challenges posed by Niger's vast territory, which spans 1,267,000 km² and shares borders with seven countries. Despite these challenges, the government has made significant efforts to increase recruitment in the military, national guard, gendarmerie, and police. Magagi drew on his experience as a former prefect and government member to emphasize the importance of collective action and strategic planning in maintaining security and promoting development.
Key points
- The canton of Harikanassou prioritizes youth involvement in development and encourages collective action to address socio-security pressures.
- Traditional leaders play a crucial role in promoting peace and development in their respective areas.
- The government has made efforts to increase recruitment in the military and security agencies to address security challenges.
