F.CFA last year. The security condition has improved in many rural areas but might not affect 1999 production substantially. Output is expected to remain close to last year s level despite favourable climatic conditions so far. Insecurity in major parts of the country at the beginning of the season prevented the delivery of agricultural inputs and disrupted agricultural activities. Weather was generally favourable since the beginning of the season despite reduced rains in late July and in August.
Satellite imagery shows below-normal vegetation over the country.
Improvement in the security situation also allows implementation of emergency and rehabilitation activities in the country. Food distribution is underway following the reopening of main roads from Freetown to Bo and Kenema, and from neighbouring Guinea to Kambia. However, the volume of food is insufficient to meet the needs of the large number of refugees and displaced persons, particularly in the north and the east. Even in the case of a successful and fast implementation of the peace agreement, the country will continue to rely heavily on food assistance for several years. Widespread and above-normal rains benefited crop development.