Senegal has a high level of vulnerability to food insecurity, particularly in the semi-arid northern and eastern regions. Food insecurity in the country commonly results from recurrent natural hazards, especially drought and seasonal flooding. The rise in production costs because of high fertiliser and energy prices and a strong import demand from international markets have increased agricultural product prices.
Between June–August 2024, an estimated 519,000 people were expected to face Crisis (CH Phase 3) food insecurity or worse, including around 12,000 people in Emergency (CH Phase 4). Food insecurity is more prevalent in rural areas because of higher poverty rates and greater reliance on rain-fed agriculture. Poor roads and transportation challenges limit rural farmers’ ability to access markets, limiting their income. Many smallholder farmers also have limited access to quality seeds, fertilisers, modern farming techniques, and irrigation, leading to lower yields.
Flooding remains a major hazard, with recurrent damage to homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods during the rainy season (typically from June–October).
(IFAD accessed 24/04/2025, FAO 03/12/2024, WFP accessed DD/MM/2024, WB 05/11/2024)
Senegal has a high level of vulnerability to food insecurity, particularly in the semi-arid northern and eastern regions. Food insecurity in the country commonly results from recurrent natural hazards, especially drought and seasonal flooding. The rise in production costs because of high fertiliser and energy prices and a strong import demand from international markets have increased agricultural product prices.
Between June–August 2024, an estimated 519,000 people were expected to face Crisis (CH Phase 3) food insecurity or worse, including around 12,000 people in Emergency (CH Phase 4). Food insecurity is more prevalent in rural areas because of higher poverty rates and greater reliance on rain-fed agriculture. Poor roads and transportation challenges limit rural farmers’ ability to access markets, limiting their income. Many smallholder farmers also have limited access to quality seeds, fertilisers, modern farming techniques, and irrigation, leading to lower yields.
Flooding remains a major hazard, with recurrent damage to homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods during the rainy season (typically from June–October).
(IFAD accessed 24/04/2025, FAO 03/12/2024, WFP accessed DD/MM/2024, WB 05/11/2024)
