The consequences of the “double crises” on the triple nexus in West Africa

Abstract

The “double crises” in West Africa is an existential threat, contributing to complicate humanitarian, development and peace (HDP) response in the region, with devastating effects in general. Although both the climate crisis and the insurgence actions call for robust HDP interventions in the region, evidence suggests that HDP initiatives are much focused on stand-alone and ‘fire-brigade’ approaches and not significantly contributing to promote sustainability within the framework of the triple nexus. This study purposively interviewed 15 HDP institutions in two West African Countries (Nigeria and Burkina Faso) on the consequences of the “double crises” and the findings presented within the framework of the triple nexus. A qualitative approach was adopted using interview guides and the data was analyzed thematically. The assessment established that the effects of the “double crises” are intertwined with devastating effects on the triple nexus. Both crises contribute to increased human displacement, including that of essential service providers, and pose significant threats to human and economic security. These challenges call for coordinated HDP initiatives. Besides, while the region is highly vulnerable to the “double crises”, it serves as a fertile ground for recruitment and attacks of some of the insurgents. The affected persons are at times displaced multiple times within a very short period thereby affecting the sustainability of outcomes of responses. The multiple displacements also affect the availability and reliability of data which is a basic requirement for timely and effective HDP response. Also, competition over resources in host communities increases, generating tension between the displaced persons and resource owners, further resulting in displacement. Furthermore, there exist ineffective early warning systems partly due to trust deficit and weak collaboration between HDP organizations contributing to significant loss of properties and lives. I conclude that although HDP actions are critical in the development discourse, the “double crises” are adversely making responses complex, increasing humanitarian needs with dwindling funds and resources for response thereby requiring more proactive and collaborative approach to tackle the crisis in the region.