CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC (CAR) (10 February)
Harvesting of the 2004 cereal crops is complete. The output is expected to recover somewhat, reflecting an improved security situation relative to the situation in 2003 and increased plantings following agricultural inputs distribution with assistance of FAO in the localities which were adversely affected by the 2003 rebellion.
The inflation estimated at 7 percent in 2003 due to increased food prices resulting from transport disruptions, slowed down in 2004 due mainly to an improved security situation. Inflation is expected to remain stable in 2005, which should improve access to food in the country. Although most of the 230 000 IDPs have returned home, an estimated 41 000 refugees from CAR are still living in Chad.