Cereal production in the country continues to decline as a result of continuing problems in the agricultural sector. In addition this year, reports indicate that output may fall by a further 17 percent, due to a shortage of seed at the time of planting, which would leave some 50 000 hectares out of a target of some 280 000 to 300 000 hectares planned, unplanted.
Transitional problems in the economy, coupled with dwindling domestic cereal supplies severely constrain the country’s ability to feed its people. The unemployed, the elderly, female headed households, children, pensioners and small herders are considered the most vulnerable. These segments of the population have limited financial resources to purchase food from a market which is being increasingly liberalized. Even those in employment face considerable problems in meeting household demand for food as inflation remains high and increases in food prices have so far substantially outpaced wages in the public sector. This year reports from NGOs and international agencies working in the country indicate that the nutritional situation in parts of the country has deteriorated sharply with significant numbers of people having severely reduced food intake.
For the most vulnerable groups in society, those categorized as being absolutely poor, an FAO mission last year recommended that some 22 000 tons be provided in emergency food aid. It is estimated that to date some 5 000 tons have been provided bilaterally, whilst plans are being finalized for some 8 000 tons of additional wheat flour.