Farm level cereal situation in lower Casamance : results of a field study

It is based on a critical analysis of available time series production data (1960-1982) and a cross sectional analysis of farm-level data collected in 1982-1983 and 1983-1984 by the Djibelor Production Systems Team. The objectives are to: (1) evaluate the food crop balance through an examination of cereals produced, stored, consumed, and marketed by farmers and, (2) examine various ways for making up a possible cereals deficit. The results indicate that production is insufficient for consumer needs in several villages and that the Lower Casamance farmer is a net buyer in the cereal market. Factors influencing the demand for imported white rice by smallholders are analyzed; transport costs and the daily consumption rate are the most important variables determining the quantities demanded. Diversification of farmer cropping systems is one means to improve the present cereal situation. (Author abstract)