High milk production was noted. Normal seasonal migration to the pastoral in-lands had been observed. Irrigated maize is about 60,000 ha which is in normal condition. An average crop production will be expected, however, it may be subjected to irrigation water shortage. Further canal rehabilitation activities would increase the area under cultivation in coming seasons.
Banana plantations provide fewer job opportunity because of lack of export potential.
Both rainfed and irrigated farming fo od economy groups have diverted their efforts to collecting bush products by cutting trees and burning them for charcoal, all these activities contributed to the degradation of the environment. Already sand dunes have started to encroach agricultural lan ds and main roads. Also extensive floods in September in Jowhar and Bakool has created waves of IDPs in the Middle Shabelle Region. Market Prices Prices of locally produced food items such as maize, sorghum and beans are on the increase. Their supply condition is scarce.