Food prices still climbing in West Africa, crisis feared
Food prices at markets across West Africa are already high for the time of year and are still rising, suggesting aid agencies should prepare for a potentially serious hunger crisis later in the year as people across the impoverished region may not be able to afford enough to eat, despite food being available.
Haggling over food at Boubon market, southwest Niger in August 2006. There is almost always food available in West Africa but the extreme levels of poverty in the region mean not everyone can afford it. (Image: Nicholas Reader/IRIN)
Normally in January and February cereal and grain prices in West Africa are driven down as harvests from the year before start hitting the markets.
But production of cereals was low across the region in 2007 because of a late start and early end to the rainy season, which affected production of millet, sorghum and maize. Analysts say traders are seeking to maximise profit by hoarding stocks, because they know the low production will yield higher prices.
