Food and nutritional situation in Mauritania

In Part I, the geographical and demographic features of the country"s main ecological zones are briefly noted, past nutritional studies reviewed, and data on the regional and per capita availability of cereals (millet/sorghum, rice) presented. Mauritanians" cereal-based dietary habits are outlined and the effect of income on the urban diet analyzed. Various in-country nutrition programs are described. Part II presents results of a 1980 food consumption survey conducted under the RAMS (Rural Assessment and Manpower Surveys) Project. The survey showed that caloric intake - which depends excessively on imports - is sufficient in only 55-60% of households and is especially deficient among the urban poor, e.g., in Akjoujt and among young children in Nouakchott"s fifth arrondissement, as well as among nomads in the second, third, and fourth regions. The survey also revealed that irrigated rice cultivation as currently practiced is excessively costly, leading to high rural-to-urban migration. Recommendations focus on training nutrition education teachers, developing an autonomous agriculture, and improving sanitation. Numerous supporting tables and charts are included.