Although the belg crop accounts for roughly 7 percent of total cereal production, it is the main crop in some areas. Abundant precipitation during the season, coupled with effective control of armyworms and adequate fertilizer availability resulted in a good harvest. Normal to above normal rains in the past two months resulted in floods and crop losses in parts, but overall benefited developing crops. However, abundant precipitation of past months has also resulted in pest outbreak in some areas of northeastern highlands.
Control operations are underway.
However, despite the overall satisfactory food supply situation, food assistance is still required in parts where the harvests were reduced and in traditionally food deficit areas of Tigray, North Wollo, Walaita and Hararghe zones. These were expected to be covered by carryover stocks and through donor-supported local purchases.