Harvesting of recession and off-season crops is underway. Prospects for the walo recession crops are not favourable due to drying effect of the harmattan wind and pest attacks. Pastures have deteriorated. Low numbers of Desert Locusts are present in the north where limited breeding may occur.
The overall food supply situation in 1998 is anticipated to be tight. Poor rainfed production in Senegal will also limit possible imports in the Senegal river area. Following substantial recent commercial imports, wheat and rice prices remain mostly stable. The government has requested international food assistance amounting to about 50 000 tonnes.