An agricultural harvest period marked by a seasonally typical decrease in prices similar to the five year average

The seasonally typical decrease in cereal prices since the beginning of October is seen across the majority of the country. As a result of harvests in progress, the availability of products is increasing in markets. Prices for staple grains remain stable overall compared to the same time last year and also to the five year average. In the Sahelian zone, which is usually in deficit, only the Titao market shows an unusual increase in the price of millet by 22 percent compared to the five year average. 

Agricultural households, notably the poorest, have a normal daily diet from their own production. Sales of parts of their production, particularly cash crops (peanuts, Bambara groundnut, cowpeas, fonio and sweet potatoes) are bringing them near normal revenues. In addition, the startup of market garden activities and gold panning are also a sources of income for producers to strengthen and improve their diets and incomes, as usual, for the coming months. 

Livestock sales, particularly cattle and sheep, remains sluggish owing to the decline in external flows to the main purchasing countries (Nigeria, Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire) partly as a result of the depreciation of the Naira and the CEDI. In the livestock markest of Dori, Djibo, and Gorom Gorom, ram prices have fallen by 5 to 11 percent compared to September 2015. Nevertheless, the physical state of livestock is good and there is resumption of internal trade. Although agricultural households do not currently purchase cereal for consumption, the terms of trade for livestock/cereals are in their favor.