Depletion of fodder and low value of livestock are affecting food security in pastoral areas

The majority of households of agricultural and agro-pastoral areas are meeting an average food availability, thanks to cereal harvests and off season crops and they are able to meet their food and nonfood needs. Minimal (IPC Phase 1) acute food insecurity will remain in those areas until at least September 2018, except for certain households in Stress (IPC Phase 2). 

The fodder deficit combined to low livestock prices is leading to a deterioration of livelihoods characterized by massive sales of livestock. Households in this area will meet Stressed (IPC Phase 2) food insecurity until July 2018, due to the low purchase power.

Harvests have reached markets ensuring a good cereal availability. Market supply is regular with internal flows ensuring a good offer in markets that have a deficit and a good diversity of food products. Prices remained stable between January and February with a moderate increase compared to five-year average in most markets, limiting food access for the poorest households. 

The Boko Haram conflict keeps disturbing the main food and income sources, as well as food products and livestock trade in Diffa region. Acute food insecurity will remain in Crisis (IPC Phase 3) until at least September 2018. Some poor pastoral households could face Crisis food security outcomes in June and July in the absence of assistance.