MAURITANIA:

Rainfed crops are developing generally satisfactorily reflecting good growing conditions. In early September, above normal rains, often exceeding 50mm during the dekad, were received in the producing areas where they provided good soil moisture. Precipitation remained widespread and quite abundant during the second dekad but they decreased in Assaba, Brakna and the north of the two Hodhs. In late September, crop water needs remained generally covered but soil moisture reserves decreased, which may affect late planted crops, notably in the south-east.

Pastures have regenerated satisfactorily following widespread rains in early or mid-September. Localized attacks by grasshoppers and other insects are reported. A solitary Desert Locust adult was seen south of Aioun El Atrous on 7 September and isolated mature adults were seen at a few places in Trarza and western Tagant in late September. Locust numbers are likely to increase but remain at a low and non-threatening level in the south-west and in the north between Akjoujt and Zouerate.

A joint FAO/CILSS Crop Assessment Mission is scheduled from 2 to 6 November to estimate the 1998 cereal production.

Satellite Images (Cold Cloud Duration for the last three dekads)

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