Production of rice increased by 13 percent and 41 percent respectively compared to 1998 and the average for the last five years, while coarse grains production increased by 17 percent and 23 percent respectively. Desert Locusts have been reported in the Timetrine area in December. Locusts escaping control will concentrate in the remaining green areas of Adrar or move further north into southern Algeria. Following two successive bumper crops, the overall food situation is satisfactory. Therefore, no food aid distributions or sales are required.
Pest attacks are also limited.
However, the high level reached by the S n gal river caused substantial flooding in Brakna, Gorgol and Trarza, in the S n gal river basin and reduced irrigated rice production. Desert Locusts have been reported in Dakhlet Nouadhibou, in northern Trarza and Tiris Zemmour. Breeding of sparse populations will continue in the extreme north-west but the development will be slowed down by low temperatures. The food situation improved in rural areas following a good harvest, except in the flooded areas. Food distributions are underway for the affected populations.