FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 09/99 - LIBERIA* (9 September)
Growing conditions are favourable so far but crop prospects remain constrained by continuing civil disturbances. The 1999 rainy season has progressed satisfactorily. Rains have been generally well distributed and above normal. Crops are growing satisfactorily and output is expected to be similar to or above last year, except in the North where fighting broke out in Lofa in early August. Over 50 000 people have been displaced in Voinjama and Kolahum in upper Lofa County. Humanitarian programmes for Liberian returnees and Sierra Leonean refugees were disrupted by insecurity and stock looting.
The overall food situation has improved significantly. However, in the northern region the nutritional and health condition of displaced people has deteriorated, particularly among women and the elderly. Lack of food and drugs is reported. Resettlement and rehabilitation activities have allowed refugees and Internally Displaced persons to return to their homes. About 90 000 refugees from Sierra Leone remain in Liberia. On the basis of an estimated population of about 2.8 million in 1999, FAO estimates that Liberia needs to import 155 000 tonnes of cereals to meet consumption requirements. Commercial imports are anticipated at 100 000 tonnes of rice and 5 000 tonnes of wheat. The remaining 50 000 tonnes will need to be covered by food aid, estimated at 30 000 tonnes of wheat and 20 000 tonnes of maize products such as maize meal and CSB for distribution to vulnerable displaced people. At the end of August, 57 700 tonnes of food aid had been pledged and delivered.
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