FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 09/98 - PAPUA NEW GUINEA (3 September)

PAPUA NEW GUINEA (3 September)

A tidal wave about 10 metres high has recently struck a remote part of the Northwest coast of the country, destroying the whole area near Scission lagoon. Most of the fish and crabs in the lagoon were also reported to have died.

Notwithstanding the tidal wave, the country has received normal to above-normal rains during the growing season, which benefited crops. Prospects for crops, mainly roots and tubers, are expected to be good. However, the food situation is likely to be tight for vulnerable groups and those who lacked basic agricultural inputs at the planting time.