In April 2011, FEWS NET began the transition to the acute food insecurity reference table based on households (attached) and the phase scale whose official launch is scheduled with the publication of version 2.0 of the integrated food security classification framework (IPC) in July 2011. For more information, go to www.fews.net/FoodInsecurityScale.
• The massive return of migrants to Niger, due to socio-political crises in Libya, Cote d'Ivoire and Nigeria, is exacerbating food shortages for many households whose food security is already tight (Figure 1).
• Seasonal forecasts suggest a average to above average rainfall in 2011, indicating a second consecutive year of good agricultural and pastoral production.
• Prices of cereals are at a level comparable to the average nominal five-year average for this time of year, but given the steady increase in demand for cereals, we can expect a seasonable increase during the four to five months.