Matam is one of the poorest and most food-insecure regions of Senegal. Its economy is largely based on agriculture and pastoralism, thus vulnerable to climatic changes and socio-economic shocks. Matam experiences infrastructure weakness and poor access to many basic services, such as hospitals and schools. Education is still inaccessible to a large portion of young people.

FAO, together with the Agence Nationale de la Statistique et de la Démographie (ANSD), conducted a study examining food insecurity and resilience through RIMA-II. The analysis helps to better understand what affects Matam and how to improve inhabitants’ livelihood.

This brief delivers policy initiatives that might be taken into consideration by the regional government of Matam in the policy design and implementation process.