SIERRA LEONE* (31 May)
Satellite images show that rainfall has been generally below average, with dry weather in most parts, which may have affected planting of the rice crop. However, paddy production is expected to increase further this year, reflecting an improved security situation and increased plantings by returning refugees and displaced farmers.
Cereal production in 2002 is estimated at some 417 000 tonnes, 20 percent above last year’s level. The food supply situation is satisfactory, following this good harvest. The humanitarian situation in the country has also improved significantly following the end of the war. In 2002, over 100 000 Sierra Leonean refugees and 124 000 IDPs returned to their home areas. However, renewed civil strife in Liberia has caused at least 40 000 Liberians to cross into the country.