MALI (8 October)
Rains were widespread from July through August, and soil moisture was generally adequate to allow satisfactory development of crops. Millet and sorghum are generally in the heading stages but harvesting of early millet has started in some regions. Transplanting of irrigated rice is still underway. There are reports of low use of fertilizer on rice in Office du Niger, San and Tombouctou, which may affect rice yield this year. Moreover, grain-eating birds and grasshoppers are reported in several regions. The desert locust situation is reported to be calm, with only scattered adults reported in the north. Pastures are generally good.
Although the overall food security situation has been improving, with the beginning of harvesting in the country and increased imports from neighbouring countries, there remain pockets of severe food insecurity in the North. Vulnerable groups need to be continuously monitored and assisted as necessary until the end of the lean season.