The 1997 coarse grain crop is estimated at 27 000 tons, including 21 000 tons of millet and sorghum, which is one- third of last year’s crop. Maize production has dropped to 6 000 tons against last year's 23 000 tons. Yields for crops planted in November/December may have been adversely affected by the February dry spell. Some pests were also reported during the season including Quelea birds in parts of central, northern and southern areas.
The food supply situation for the 1997/98 marketing year is expected to be satisfactory as cereal import requirements are likely to be met commercially.