The outlook for 1997 winter crops remains uncertain due to reports of low rain in all parts of the country, especially in northern areas where irrigation depends mainly on rainfall. Moreover, scarcity of basic agricultural inputs such as quality seeds, spare parts, vaccines and agrochemicals and the widespread incidence of pests, weeds and animal diseases, will further constrain yields. The output of wheat and barley for the 1996/97 winter crop season is forecast to be significantly below normal.
Under the oil-for-food deal, U.S.$ 804.63 million are allocated to the procurement of food commodities to insure a daily energy intake of 2 030 kcal and 47 gm of protein per person/day. By the end of May, the country had received 692 000 tons of food, about a third of the 2.2 million tons expected under the deal. The first commodities under the agreement began arriving in late March, and distribution of wheat flour started in April. In May, food distribution included rations of wheat flour, rice, pulses and oil. As for salt, sugar and tea, deliveries had not been sufficient for a monthly distribution. The distribution of the full ration quota is expected to start in July. An Emergency Feeding Operation, targeted at vulnerable groups whose special food needs will not be covered by the distribution of food under the deal, has been jointly approved by FAO and WFP for the period 1 April-31 December 1997. The oil-for-food deal was extended for another 6 months by the United Nations Security Council on 4 June 1997.
An FAO/WFP Food and Nutrition Assessment Mission was fielded to the country in June and should complete its work in July.