Rains were widespread in June and became abundant in mid-July, particularly in Zou department, resulting in crop damage. Floods were reported in many villages and thousands of people were displaced. In July, infestations of black armyworm in Atakora and Borgou departments caused damage to emerging millet, sorghum and maize. Losses were heavy and farmers abandoned planting in these departments. So far, control measures have not been undertaken.
Food supply is satisfactory in the South, as the new crop comes into the markets.
Prices remain lower than in 1998 mainly because Sahelian countries are importing less this year and farmers are selling more to compensate for low cotton incomes. Widespread and regular rains in August permitted satisfactory crop development. Following good growing conditions in July, rains were abundant and well distributed in August. Precipitation was particularly beneficial and above normal from the second dekad except in the north-east. Rainfall started to decrease in the third dekad but remained widespread.