FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 09/98 - RWANDA* (3 September)
Security conditions deteriorated during the month of August, when at least 160 people were reported killed in fighting in the prefectures of Byumba, Ruhengeri and Kigali. As a result, WFP suspended food distributions in Ruhengeri in early September.
The 1998 second season foodcrop output was estimated by an FAO/WFP/EU/FEWS/ Government local assessment team as substantially higher than last year and around the pre-civil strife average level of 1990. The area planted increased 9 percent and good rains in May and June benefited crops. As a result, the food deficit until the next harvest is estimated at 63 000 tonnes of cereal equivalent, well below that of the first half of the year. The tight food situation, following the insufficient food production of the previous season, has eased with the new harvest. Food prices started to decline in June.
However, in the northwestern prefectures of Gitarama, Ruhengeri and Gisenyi, affected by persistent insecurity, the food situation remains tight for thousands of displaced people who were unable to plant crops this season. Cases of malnutrition are reported from some camps. Food aid is being distributed to these IDPs but increasing insecurity hampers access to several locations.
Back
to menu