FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 09/98 - SENEGAL (15 September)
The rainy season started in the extreme south- east in early June, with the rains progressing slowly to the centre and the north, which remained dry up to mid-July. Planting of coarse grains started with the arrival of the rains in late July in the north, which was later than last year but normal. In August, regular rains were recorded in the centre and the north, except in the southern part of St Louis region. Heavy rains in Tambacounda region caused flooding in some areas. In the south, (Kolda region), precipitation remained irregular and poorly distributed. Crop water needs are covered everywhere and crops are generally developing satisfactorily. Maize is flowering and rice is tillering/elongating. Due to the late start of the rains in the centre and centre-north and seed supply difficulties, planted areas are likely to be reduced. The final outcome will depend heavily on the continuation of the rains up to mid- October in the centre and the north.
Pastures are regenerating following regular rains in August. Grasshopper infestations have been reported in Kaffrine department but treatments prevented their spread. Grain eating birds are also reported in the Senegal River region. No Desert Locust activity is reported.
Following the reduced 1997 cereal harvest due to a long dry spell in July/August 1997, the overall food supply situation was tight during the lean season in the affected areas. In the urban areas, food supply is adequate and prices of rice are stable, reflecting substantial commercial imports by traders. In rural areas, supplies and prices of rice are also generally stable, prices of coarse grains started to decrease following substantial increases during the lean season. In July, the Government allocated a total of about 7 billion CFA Francs to buy food locally and distribute it to vulnerable populations.
A joint FAO/CILSS Crop Assessment Mission is scheduled in late October to estimate 1998 crop production.
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