Significant and widespread rains since August permitted satisfactory crop development. Growing conditions remained favourable in September with the first two dekads registering significant and widespread rains in the archipelago. Soil moisture reserves are adequate to meet crop needs in most areas. Maize and beans are developing satisfactorily particularly in Fogo and Brava islands where good harvests are expected.
Pastures remain insufficient in coastal areas. Despite the treatments against larvae in August, persistent attacks of grasshoppers and other pests (armyworm in particular) are reported in Fogo and Santiago islands.
A joint FAO/CILSS Crop Assessment Mission is scheduled from 25 to 29 October to estimate 1999 cereal production
