Résumé en anglais

How to reduce poverty, vulnerability and food insecurity in remote areas is a complex issue that has not been settled till today. In order to mitigate the food access problem in rural areas of Sahelian countries, many aid organizations and governments have supported programs of cereal banks. This policy brief presents the results of a study aimed at evaluating the impact on food security of such a community- and market-based intervention. The positive and large impact found on food access and nutrition – especially in more remote areas – confirms that well-functioning food markets are crucial for food security and nutrition. The study also highlights that food reserve interventions like cereal banks can play an important role in activating local food markets in the Sahelian context.