With the improving rains in late July, millet and sorghum crops have recovered and are developing satisfactorily. Precipitation remained widespread in early August. In the southern half of the country, crops are generally in the vegetation stage. Plantings and replantings are completed countrywide. Pastures are regenerating quickly in the north.
Water reserves are well replenished.
Treatments are underway. Following an above-average 1996 harvest, the overall food supply situation is satisfactory and markets are generally well supplied. Due to arrival on the markets of fresh maize and early millet, cereal prices are decreasing in most provinces except in the north where they are increasing and where some population may face food supply difficulties. Deficits in northern provinces can be covered by transfer of cereals from the south, for which external assistance may be required. Cereal needs for ongoing food aid programmes can also be covered by local purchases.