Locust-hit Mauritania needs more aid - UN agency

Alarmed by the massive destruction of crops caused by desert locusts in Mauritania, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is warning that more funds are needed to help farmers there.

Mauritania's cereal production is expected to decline by half, according to the Rome-based agency, which said more food, seed and fodder are required to help farming communities

In addition to Mauritania, farmers in other countries of the Sahel region, such as Niger, Mali, Senegal, Chad and Burkina Faso, are also likely to need assistance, FAO said.

The agency, which has so far received $52.4 million for its locust control operations, is waiting for donors to come forward with an additional $15 million pledged previously.