FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 04/01 - MAURITANIA (9 April)
Seasonably dry conditions prevail. Production of rainfed (dieri) crops was well above average. Irrigated areas decreased in Trarza and Brakna and yields are anticipated to be reduced due to late plantings and lack of production credit. Prospects for recession (walo) crops in Brakna, Gorgol and Trarza are also less favourable than in the previous year as planted areas decreased due to reduced water levels in the Senegal River. Attacks by birds and caterpillars were also reported in several areas. A joint FAO/CILSS Crop Assessment Mission estimated the 2000 cereal production at 177 000 tonnes, which is 8 percent below the 1999 level and about average. A few Desert Locusts are present near Zouerate in the north.
The food situation improved in rural areas following good rainfed crops. Markets are well supplied. Sorghum prices increased sharply in Brakna, Gorgol and Trarza following poor recession crops. Several populations remain vulnerable, notably in various areas of the two Hodhs, Aftout and Affol�. The Government launched in February a request for 20 000 tonnes of emergency food aid.
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