COTE D'IVOIRE (8 October)
Harvesting of the first maize crop is nearly complete in the South. Satellite imagery shows that output may be affected by dry spells which occurred in the south-east in July. Moreover, conflict-induced problems, notably labour shortages due to populations displacements, the lack of agricultural support services in parts of the country, market segmentation, disruptions by insecurity, and excessive transport costs due to hefty levies at roadblocks, continue to disrupt agricultural production and marketing activities. Food security for many households also continues to be hampered by disruption of livelihoods especially in the west. In addition, due to the continuing unfavourable market situation, smallholder cash crop producers are experiencing a significant loss of income.