Harvest prospects are favourable following generally above normal rains since July. In early September, precipitation remained widespread and above normal. Rains decreased during the second dekad but remained widespread. They continued regularly during the third dekad. Cumulative rainfall is normal to above normal countrywide. Soil moisture reserves are generally adequate for satisfactory crop maturation. Millet and sorghum are generally heading/flowering. Early planted crops have matured or are at early harvest stage. Overall harvest prospects are good.
Pastures are abundant and of good quality. Attacks of blister beetles and other insects are reported on millet, maize or rice in several areas.
A joint FAO/CILSS Crop Assessment Mission is scheduled from 18 to 22 October
to estimate 1999 cereal production.
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