By Kelin Baum

capital One of 5 major citys Geographical land mark

The orange symbolizes the Sahara Desert, which covers more than half of the country of Niger. White stands for purity and innocence and the green stands for the River Niger, and the lush vegetation and fertile agricultural areas of the country. The orange circle represents the sun and also the readiness of Niger to defend its freedom

Brief summery The area of this landlocked country is 490,000 square miles. One of the hottest countries of the world, Niger straddles the Sahara and Sahelian climate zones. Niger is essentially a flat country. Rainfall is rare north and east of the Air Massif but generally adequate in the west. The capital city is Niamey, with a 1998 population of approximately 500,000, located on the Niger River, which has a multiethnic population.

transportation Cars, buses, trains, plaine

imports Ores, slag, and ash Live animals Other made textile articles, sets, worns clothing, etc.

exports Mineral fuels, oils, distillation products, etc. Boilers, machinery, nuclear reactors, etc. Pharmaceuticals products

food Nigerian food recipes come mainly from a selection of semi solid doughs or boiled servings prepared from cassava, plantain, yam, cocoyam, millet, beans, maize, or rice, served with a typical Nigerian soup or stew.

Ethnic groups : Hausa 53%, Djerma (Zarma) 21%, Fulani 7%, Tuareg 11%, Beri Beri (Kanuri) 6%; Arab, Toubou, and Gourmantche 2%.

religion Religions: Islam (97%); remainder traditional and Christian

Languages French (official), Hausa, Djerma, Fulfulde, Kanuri, Tamachek, Toubou, Gourmantche, Arabic

Life expectancy Over all 51 years

Natural hazards Earthquakes, and dust storms

Recreational activities Visitors can take canoes or motorboats along the Niger River to the Mali border of the ‘W’ Game Park. There are several swimming pools in Niamey and Agadez, but it is not advisable to swim in the lakes or rivers. There are two riding centers in the capital. Fishing is possible throughout the year, the main season being from April to September. Big-game hunting has been outlawed

BoatingSwimming pools