Widespread and regular rains in August permitted satisfactory crop development. Following good growing conditions in July, rains were abundant and well distributed countrywide in August. They were particularly important and above normal from the second dekad except in the north-east. Rainfall started to decrease in the third dekad but remained widespread. However, late-planted crops in the south-west will need continuation of the rains through September. By contrast, flooding delayed crop development in low-lying areas. Elsewhere, soil moisture reserves are generally adequate in maintaining satisfactory crop development. Millet and sorghum are generally in the heading and early maturation stages.
Pastures are abundant. The overall pest situation is calm. Substantial infestations
of stemborers are reported in the North.
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