On October 17, 2024, a special event was held in Niamey to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Keita Integrated Project, a landmark in the longstanding cooperation between Italy and Niger. The conference, titled “40 Years of the Keita Project: Italy and Niger, A Story That Continues,” took place as part of the Italy-Niger Day celebrations, where numerous Italian and Nigerien authorities gathered to reflect on the importance and lasting impact of this pioneering initiative.
Launched in 1984 and completed in 1999, the Keita Project represents one of the most impactful Italian Cooperation interventions in Niger, focusing on combating desertification, improving food security, and promoting sustainable agricultural development. The project was implemented with the collaboration of FAO, the World Food Program (WFP), and the Niger Ministry of Agriculture. It left a lasting impact in the Tahoua region by engaging local communities and promoting social inclusion, with special attention to empowering women.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Roberto Orlando highlighted the significance of this conference as the culmination of Italy-Niger Day, which saw robust participation from Italian stakeholders, partners, and Nigerien authorities—key players without whom this day would not have been possible. Ambassador Orlando emphasized that Keita was Italy’s first major initiative in Niger, considered a pilot not only in the realm of Italy-Niger cooperation but also across other countries in desertification combat efforts.
AICS Niamey’s head, Fabio Minniti, shared anecdotes illustrating the collective memory Keita has left in Niger, resonating even with younger generations. He pointed out that the project was not just a technical intervention but a model of inclusivity, particularly through active community involvement, with significant contributions from women.
Beyond the conference, Italy-Niger Day featured a series of interactive stands throughout the morning, where attendees explored various sectors of Italy-Niger cooperation. This event underscored the enduring impact and progressive growth of the Italy-Niger partnership, celebrating the legacy of the Keita Project and envisioning future collaborations for sustainable development.
