Renewed hope, but attention is focused on the last moments of a rainy season which began capriciously
1. Brief Analysis of the Overall Agricultural and Food Situation
An analysis produced by several information sources (Agrhymet, Fews Net, and FAO) indicates improved rainfall in the entire Sahel zone. However, August was marked by floods that affected Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, Niger and Nigeria. As of 15 September, heavy rainfall had caused serious damage. In Niger, authorities estimate that 30 000 people were affected by the floods. In western Burkina Faso, nearly 20 000 people were also affected. (http://fr.allafrica.com/stories/200609150662.html)
The food situation is generally satisfactory, although some areas of Niger and Chad are experiencing food insecurity. Generally, cereal markets remain stable, with a trend of falling prices due to significant imports, and also the start of millet and cowpea harvests in some areas in Niger.
As regards locusts, the situation seems to be calm despite the appearance of some isolated locusts in the south of Mauritania, northern Mali and Niger. However, the situation calls for increased vigilance because of the improved ecological conditions that are favourable to hatching. Some granivorous birds and locusts have been reported in Nigeria, and could affect the food product market in West Africa.
