Harvesting of the 1996 second season irrigated paddy crop is about to be completed, while that of sorghum should start from January. The output of sorghum is provisionally forecast at a slightly below-average 82 000 tons. Production of rainfed and irrigated paddy for both seasons is projected at a low 80 000 to 90 000 tons. This is attributed to the use of poor seed varieties and poor water management coupled with continuing shortage of farm inputs. Food assistance from the international community is expected to increase in the next few months.