While there has been a significant increase in production of root and tubers, and the output of bananas and plantains remained around last year's level, the season was mediocre for cereals and beans crops. Insufficient rains during the growing season resulted in reduced yields and production is estimated to be some 15 percent lower than the 1998A season. The food supply, except for grains, is satisfactory. Prices of basic staples, sweet potatoes and cassava, have declined to one-third their level of a year ago. This has improved access to food for the poorest strata of population.
Indications point to a general improvement in the nutritional status of the population.
However, the food situation remains tight in the northwestern prefectures of Gisenyi and Ruhengeri where persistent civil strife has disrupted agricultural activities. Some improvement in security conditions during the month of January allowed the Government to resettle part of the displaced population. International food assistance continues to be provided to the most affected population.