FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops and Shortages 06/02 - MAURITANIA (6 June)
Seasonably dry conditions prevail. Planting will start following the onset of rains in July. During the first half of May, isolated Desert Locusts were reported in a few places.
Seasonal droughts and the poor distribution of rainfall in the 2001/2002 growing season, combined with exceptionally strong rain and cold in mid-January, have created the risk of an unprecedented food crisis. Following release of final production estimates by national statistical services, the aggregate 2001 cereal production is estimated at some 122 177 tonnes, 9 percent lower than the previous year. Prices of cereals have risen considerably on most markets.
In April, WFP approved an Emergency Operation for US$ 7.5 million (16 230 tons of food) and in mid-May, issued an urgent appeal for funds to help 250 000 people threatened by serious food shortages.