The first rains were registered in the south and the south- west in mid to late April allowing planting to start in several areas. By early June, they covered the western part of the country. In the east, seasonably dry conditions prevail. Plantings of millet and sorghum started in late May and are now well underway. Planting has not yet started in Agadez and Diffa departments.
Food supply is reported to be tight in several areas, especially in Tillabery and Diffa departments. Higher than normal migrations to Mali of families or men in search of work are reported from the north of Tillabery department. Markets are generally well supplied but cereal prices are high. Substantial imports have been recorded from neighbouring countries. The Government has appealed for international assistance, including food and seeds, and for replenishment of cereal banks. As of late May, contributions from international donors or from local solidarity programmes reported so far amounted to about 47 000 tonnes.