Following generally adequate rains since the start of the rainy season, below-normal rainfall in August over the eastern half of the country affected crop development.
Cumulative rainfall is below average except in the west and the south-west.
These dry conditions significantly reduced yield potential, notably in the centre and the east. Pastures remained generally adequate countrywide. No significant pest activity was reported. The overall food supply situation is likely to tighten in some areas, notably in the centre and the east where cereal production decreased significantly. However, farmers stocks are generally well replenished following 1999 record crop.