FAO/GIEWS: Africa Report No.2, August 1998 -

NIGER

CURRENT SITUATION

Following first early rains in the south and the south-west in April, precipitation progressed in May over the main producing areas, except in the east. In June, rains remained present over the western part of the country but decreased in the centre. In the east, dry conditions prevail up to July, when rains increased and covered the main producing areas. Planting of millet and sorghum is now drawing to a close and crops are generally emerging/tillering satisfactorily. Torrential rains in early August caused damage to infrastructure and possibly to crops in Niamey region.

Pastures are starting to regenerate. Grasshopper infestations have been reported in Dosso, Maradi, Tahoua, Tillaberry and Zinder departments. Treatments are underway. Low numbers of solitary Desert Locust adults may be present in a few places of Tamesna and are expected to lay eggs with the onset of the summer rains. Surveys have started in Aïr and Tamesna.

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 July, contributions from international donors or from local solidarity programmes reported so far amounted to about 50 000 tonnes.