Local Mosques Pray, Raise Funds for Niger

Chicago-area mosques held special prayers for rainfall in the famine-stricken West African nation of Niger on Friday. An estimated 3.6 million people are said to be facing starvation in the south of the country. During the Jumah prayers at both the Muslim Community Center on the city’s north side, and the Mosque Foundation in southwest suburban Bridgeview, congregants prayed for rainfall in Niger. The rain would ease the suffering of the millions affected by a failed crop season brought on by severe drought this summer in the small West African nation. Both mosques also raised funds on Friday to send to Niger in the form of aid. Parts of Mali, Mauritania and Burkina Faso are also affected by this summer’s drought and crop failure.

Niger's Silent Hunger, BBCNews.com

In Pictures - Hunger Hits Niger, BBCNews.com

*warning – some pictures may not be appropriate for sensitive viewers.