Abundant rains in the third dekad of October and first week of November in northern growing areas, benefited land preparation for planting of the 2003 crop scheduled in late November.
The food supply situation is tight for large numbers of people in rural areas following two consecutive reduced cereal harvests. While most of the deficit in marketing year 2002/03 (May/April) estimated at 156 000 tonnes, is expected to be covered on commercial basis, some 345 000 most vulnerable people face food shortages and are in need of food assistance until the next harvest. The Government plans to distribute 30 000 tonnes of cereals to the affected population and has allocated up to US$ 14 million for the emergency operation.