The return of displaced populations and reopening of banks support economic recovery in the north
KEY MESSAGES
The agropastoral season is progressing after a slight-tomoderately late start following poor rainfall conditions early in the season. With increased rainfall activity at the end of July, planting rates in most crop-producing areas are near average. In general, rainfall totals as of August 20th are normal to above-normal, except in Bamako and localized areas of Ségou and Koulikoro where slight deficits are observed.
The reopening of banks is bolstering economic recovery in northern Mali. The return of approximately 140,000 IDPs and refugees since June (based on IOM data as of August) and the resumption of government and utility services mark the beginning of a return to more normal conditions in the north.
Increased milk production and good terms of trade, at more than 15 percent above-average, have improved livelihood conditions for pastoralists emerging from the lean season, who are currently facing Stressed levels of food insecurity (IPC Phase 2). Price increases of 10 to 20 percent and the slow pick-up in economic activity in northern agropastoral areas still in the middle of the lean season are maintaining Stressed food security conditions (IPC Phase 2) in these areas.