Improvement in household food access due to an average green harvest

The average green harvest availability of maize, pulses (cowpea, groundnut, voandzou) and early varieties of millet, in addition to the ongoing humanitarian food distributions across the country, is leading to the end of the lean season and improved household food access. The expected average to above average harvest in October will further enhance food availability and household food access.

The average overall agricultural season predicts average to above average cereal production nationally. However, insufficient rainfall in September in Gao and Ménaka Regions and pest damage (caterpillars, birds, aphids and grasshoppers) in parts of Sikasso, Koulikoro, Kayes and Timbuktu Regions will lead to decreased local production which will negatively affect household food access in these regions. 

Market stocks remain satisfactory across the country despite disruptions from insecurity in some markets in the north of the country. The stability of cereal prices, or the seasonal decline observed in some places, as well as the increase in the terms of trade for goats and millet, contribute to an improvement in households’ access to markets. 

Stressed (IPC Phase 2) levels of food insecurity in Gourma, Gao and Timbuktu have improved due to the availability of green crops, dairy products, garden vegetables and food distribution from the Government and humanitarian partners. The expected seasonal decline in cereal prices and the improved terms of trade for livestock and cereals in October will allow average household access to commodities; leading to Minimale (IPC Phase 1) food insecurity outcomes.