In late January, cyclone Gretelle hit the southern coast of the country, bringing torrential rains and severe flooding. Some 100 people were killed in addition to damage to property, infrastructure and crops. This was followed in early February by cyclone Josie which hit the north-west bringing large amounts of rain to the vanilla-growing region, causing considerable damage to crops and infrastructure. As a result, prospects for the 1997 paddy and other crops remain uncertain.
With above-average paddy production during the past three years, the national food supply situation remains satisfactory. The cereal import requirement is estimated at 141 000 tons, much of which is being met by commercial channels and structural food aid.
An FAO/WFP Crop and Food Supply Assessment and Agricultural Rehabilitation mission is currently visiting the areas affected by cyclone Gretelle to evaluate the impact of the cyclone on the crop and food situation and estimate food and agricultural needs.