The food supply situation is satisfactory reflecting the 1999 good cereal harvest, particularly in the structurally deficit areas of the south. After good rains in November, which favoured planting operations and benefited early-planted crops, a prolonged dry spell during December, particularly in the main growing areas in the south, severely stressed developing crops. Widespread rains received in the first half of January provided relief to the moisture-stressed crops, but were too late in some areas where yield reductions are anticipated. Dry weather resumed in the third dekad of January and irregular precipitation in early February may have further reduced yields. The overall food supply situation remains satisfactory following the record cereal crop of last year, which resulted in an exportable surplus and a substantial increase in maize stocks.
Food prices remain stable.
After a good start to the rainy season, prospects for the 2000 maize and sorghum crops have deteriorated as a result of a one-month dry spell in northern growing areas. More precipitation is needed to avoid yield reductions. Pastures and livestock are reported in good condition following earlier good rains. The 2000 wheat crop is estimated to be average at 5000 tonnes. The food supply situation remains stable reflecting an increase in production last year and the country's import capacity.