Latest West Africa Food Security Outlook Sees Good Production

FEWS NET has released the latest update to its West Africa Food Security Outlook . The report sees good crop production in the region, with initial evaluations citing cereal production between 5 and 17 percent higher than 2011. The report cautions, however, that due to continuing high prices and past stock depletion, food insecurity in some parts of the region could remain at Phase 2 (Stressed) levels through October.

This food security estimate is dependent upon normal rainfall through the rest of the season. Recent heavy rain in some parts of the region (specifically Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, and Chad) has raised concerns about crop damage and health issues, including diarrhea, cholera, and malaria outbreaks.