Monthly Bulletin No. 6 of the Early Warning System

The monsoon regime was very variable during the month of July. It was weak to moderate at first in the first decade. It then experienced a decline during the 2nd decade, to finally strengthen in the 3rd decade. Overall, the rainfall for the month was satisfactory despite the poor spatio-temporal distribution, especially in the Center-North and North-East parts of the country where episodes of pockets of drought led to wilting of plants and delayed sowing operations. The development of crops remains satisfactory on the whole. The vegetative stages are heterogeneous, but dominate tillering and bolting for cereal crops; branching for legumes and cotton.
The phytosanitary situation is characterized by a general lull throughout the country. Nevertheless, a few locust infestations were reported in the localities of Gorom-
Gorom, Djibo and Arbinda (Sahel region), Ouahigouya (North region) and Kongoussi (Center-North region).
The food situation is generally satisfactory. Households have cereals, even if the weakening of these stocks is noted during this usual period of lean season.
The markets are moderately supplied by farmers ‘and traders’ stocks. The average prices per kg of traditional cereals fluctuated slightly by 7 to 8% compared to the previous month. The price of imported rice has remained broadly stable. In general, compared to the previous season and for the same period, the prices of cereals are slightly high.
Overall, the outlook for crop development is good given the regularity of the rains and the lull observed in phytosanitary terms. The effective use of improved seeds and fertilizers by producers will improve agricultural productivity. Likewise, the current sales of cereals at social prices in the communes at risk, the good physiognomy of millet and early sorghum and the ongoing maturation of maize and yam are factors favorable to stabilization, or even to the lower food prices in the markets.
The Director General of Promotion
of Rural Economy (DGPER)
Souleymane OUEDRAOGO