FAO/GIEWS: Africa Report - March 1998:

ZAMBIA

CURRENT SITUATION

Widespread and abundant rains received in most parts of the country in January and early February were beneficial to crops, particularly in Southern and Western Provinces. Current wet conditions may also negatively affect yields due to water-logging and loss of soil nutrients. Initial indications are that area planted to cereals may be nearing the 1997 level in northern areas and slightly lower elsewhere, with more diversification from maize to millet/sorghum and other crops in Southern and Western Provinces, which are generally vulnerable to drought. Seed and fertilizer supplies are reported to be normal but the area planted by small scale farmers may have also been limited in some areas due to a lack of credit and inadequate input distribution. The effective demand for fertilizers is reported to be low as prices appear to be out of reach of small farmers.

Early prospects for the 1998 cereal harvest are generally favourable in the major growing areas. Provided conditions do not deteriorate during the next few weeks, production could be close to the 1997 level. The present food supply situation is generally satisfactory as a result of recent imports of maize, especially from South Africa and available cereal supply should cover needs until the arrival of the new crop. However, further imports may be required during the 1998/99 marketing year to cover the country’s cereal needs.