BENIN (30 May)
The first rains came in March in the south, allowing planting of the first maize crop. Rains covered the entire country from mid-April and were widespread and above average in the north, benefiting emerging millet and sorghum crops. Precipitation decreased somewhat in May in the south.
Following well above average cereal harvest in 2002, the overall food supply situation in Benin is satisfactory. Markets are well supplied and prices of cereals are generally stable. Cereal imports for domestic use and re-exports during the 2003 marketing year are estimated at 140 000 tonnes and food aid requirements at 15 000 tonnes.