In order to assess the situation and trends in food production in the Sahel, factors that will continue to influence food supply and demand and prospects for the future are examined.
Agriculture is still the major source of employment and income generation.
The food situation of the Sahel differs from country to another and from year to year. The food situation is generally referred to food production, population growth, urbanization and income. The human resources as well as the nutritional security of the population have been neglected for many years. As a consequence, significant decreases in diet related morbidity and mortality particularly in the children and the women are still expected. Despite pessimistic projections, progress has been made in the last years and will be reflected in improved food availability in the near future.