CONGO, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF (14 October)
Harvesting of maize, sorghum and millets in the northern part of Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is currently underway with expectations of a normal aggregate production. Judging from satellite imagery, above normal crop conditions in the centre and the north and normal to below normal in the south are expected. Staple crops, namely cassava and banana, have been severely damaged by pests and diseases this year. Insecurity for producers and traders (who are forced to pay illegal levies on their farm produce), still remains a primary concern. Since January this year the country has imported 190 000 tonnes of cereals (mostly wheat) on commercial basis and has received much of the pledged food aid of 52 000 tonnes. More aid would be needed during the lean period of October-December.
Repatriation of some 150 000 Congolese refugees has recently began by UNHCR. Re-establishment of agriculture for their livelihoods would require a coordinated effort and assistance. Under the Minimum Partnership Program for Transition and Recovery, the donor community has pledged US$6.86 billion over the next 4 years, of which US$285 million are intended for agriculture. The country has also received a low-interest loan of US$39 million from the IMF under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility and a promise of US$150 million new grant from the World Bank for the health sector improvements.
To reinforce the resumption of agricultural activities, WFP is planning local food purchases in the surplus markets in the eastern areas for distribution throughout the country.