Seasonably dry conditions prevail. Following release of the final 1997/98 cereal production figures, the aggregate cereal production has been revised downwards to about 2 million tonnes, which is about 19 percent and 18 percent below 1996 and the last five years’ average, respectively. This is the lowest level since 1990. The list of deficit areas has also been revised.
Reflecting this below-average harvest, the overall food supply situation will be tight in areas which gathered reduced crops. The Government has estimated the emergency food aid needs at 67 200 tonnes to cover consumption requirements of 800 000 people for seven months. It has also launched an emergency programme, including off-season production, nutrition, cereal bank replenishment projects, as well as emergency food assistance.