CRS information officer for West Africa, Lane Hartill, visited Niger during the last two weeks. In Bermo, he met with students and parents who have benefited from CRS’ education program.

CRS regional information officer Lane Hartill (right) makes a friend during his travels in Niger. Photo by Musa Tambaya for CRS.

I showed up at the market, nosing around, looking terribly out of place. With my swollen backpack and photo paraphernalia, nobody would mistake me for a local. I was following Ruwa, a single dad who was selling a rail-thin goat (he made $12) to buy food for his three daughters. The oldest, Fatchima, 13, goes to a school CRS supports for nomadic children. There was no auctioneer. An intermediary shuttled between the buyer and Ruwa, making the deal. Surprisingly, nobody paid any attention to me. I couldn’t believe it.

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