Analysis Report on Sahel Biomass 2019

Highlights:

Overall, biomass production in the Sahel for the 2019 season shows a significant deterioration compared to the 2018 biomass levels. Senegal, Mauritania, and the pastoral areas in northern Niger and Chad require significant attention. These areas could experience an early and prolonged dry season. In addition to biomass deficits, some of these regions are also affected by surface water deficits, as seen in the southwest of Tagant (Mauritania).

Pastoral areas in Senegal and Mauritania are still recovering from successive droughts that have occurred over the past six years in these regions. Therefore, the impacts of biomass deficits will be magnified as decimated herds struggle to find pastures and water.

Elsewhere, there are moderate biomass deficits in the pastoral areas of northern Niger (Zinder and Diffa) to the East, as well as in some parts of Tahoua and Tillabéry to the West. A similar situation is observed in Chad. Most of these deficit areas are in proximity to surplus areas. If herd mobility is not hindered, herders should be able to find pastures. However, in conflict or banditry-prone areas, which are intensifying in the Sahel region (Burkina Faso, Niger – Tillabéry, Tahoua, Diffa – and Mali – Gao, Mopti), this may be less evident.

Given these trends and the significant biomass deficit, pastoral situations need regular monitoring. An early response to the dry season in Senegal and Mauritania should be undertaken promptly.

Recommendations:

  • Refer to the ACF Early Warning Guide on Biomass at: tinyurl.com/early-warning.
  • Conduct rapid assessments in deficit areas to determine community needs.
  • Government and humanitarian actors: Adjust intervention plans and emergency measures to accommodate a potential early pastoral dry season in Mauritania and Senegal. Consider incorporating the following interventions:
  • Strengthening public livestock services and pastoral organizations.
  • Distribution of animal feed.
  • Livestock restocking/de-stocking.
  • Veterinary support and livestock vaccination.
  • Cash transfers.

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