The capital of the West African country of Niger is Niamey. The city is home to many Yoruba and Hausa traders as well as craftsmen from rural areas and from the nearby countries of Nigeria, Benin, and Togo. Government officials also live in the city.
Niamey lies along the Niger River in the southwestern corner of Niger. Located on the southern edge of the Sahara Desert, the city has a hot and dry climate.
The University of Niamey and the National School of Administration are the prominent educational centers in Niamey. There are research institutes for geology and minerals, human sciences, oral tradition, tropical agriculture, and veterinary studies. The city also has a national museum.
Niamey has a few industries. Mining has taken place south of the city since iron ore was discovered there in 1962. Most people work in services or in trade and finance. Boats and ferry services are used for transportation along and across the river. Roads link the city to the Atlantic ports in neighboring Benin and Nigeria. The city also has an international airport.
Niamey was initially a fishing village inhabited by the Zerma and Fulani people. In 1926 it was established as the capital of France's Niger colony. Niamey grew rapidly after World War II (1939–45). Population (1988 estimate), 391,880; (1999 estimate), urban area, 731,000.
