Southern Africa's food supply situation remains stable. Harvesting of the main cereal crops is almost complete in most countries of the region. Total output is expected to be average, estimated at 17 million tons, but 12 percent below last year's bumper crop. Sub-Saharan Africa's cereal import requirements in 1997 are expected to be lower than last year by some 21 percent, reflecting the generally satisfactory 1996 harvests in western Africa and parts of the Horn, and a relatively good harvest, now nearing completion, in southern Africa. However, the sub-region's food aid needs, though some 15 percent lower than last year, remain high, estimated at 2 million tons.
Food aid pledges currently fully match the requirement but speedier deliveries are needed.
Despite a marked improvement in the security situation in the Great Lakes region, serious food supply difficulties persist, largely due to massive population movements in the recent past and continuing displacements. In Rwanda, 1.6 million more people will need to be fed in the second half of 1997 than during the same period a year ago - an increase of 25 percent. Yet, overall food production in 1997 is estimated at 18 percent below the 1990 level. Access to food has become exceedingly difficult for those relying on market purchases as prices have soared. Thus, substantial food assistance continues to be required.