FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 09/98 - UGANDA (3 September)
Harvest of the 1998 first season foodcrops is well advanced, while planting of the second season crops is underway. Rains in late July and August hampered harvest operations but provided soil moisture for land preparation for the second season planting. Overall, the 1998 first season production of maize and beans is estimated to be good. However, there are regional variations. In southern, south-western and western parts, despite a delay in the onset of the rains, yields and output are satisfactory. By contrast, a dry spell in the second dekad of May in the north, northeastern and eastern parts resulted in reduced production. In the northern districts of Gulu and Kitgum, the intensification of rebel activity at planting time further reduced production levels.
The overall food supply situation has improved with the arrival of the new harvest. Prices of beans and maize have declined. However, food difficulties are being experienced in the northern and western areas where civil conflict persists. Food aid is being provided to 400 000 displaced people but insecurity hampers access to the needy population. Food aid is also required for 126 000 people in northeastern areas of Kotido, Moroto and Kitgum affected by a succession of poor harvests.
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