FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 10/00 - SIERRA LEONE* (18 September)

Resurgence of civil disturbances in early May seriously disrupted agricultural activities at the critical planting period of the rice crop, the main staple. Due to insecurity, input distribution and on-going relief operations were suspended or seriously disrupted, notably in the north. The security situation improved from June/July but remains tense. Growing conditions were generally satisfactory. Following abundant rains in early and mid-July, precipitation decreased from late July to midAugust but improved significantly in late August and early September. Rice crop is now in the elongation phase but planted areas are likely to be significantly below last year's level and a reduced harvest is anticipated.

In addition to the 160 000 Internally Displaced Persons already registered, up to 150 000 new IDPs have been registered in the south and the west following the upsurge of fighting in May. About half a million persons have also been displaced and hosted by local communities in government controlled areas while it is estimated that 1 million persons are affected by the war in rebel controlled areas and are not accessible to humanitarian agencies. An estimated 420 000 Sierra Leonean refugees also remain in neighbouring West African countries, mostly in Guinea (more than 300 000) and in Liberia. Despite the hostilities, WFP and NGOs continued food distributions to approximately 100 000 beneficiaries. WFP reports a food pipeline shortfall of 1 774 tonnes of cereals until the end of September and 9 000 tonnes until the end of the year. With the rainy season, the food supply situation has deteriorated as many areas remain inaccessible due to transport problems. Recent assessments in Bumbuna and Daru areas reported high food needs among IDPs as road access is impossible due to insecurity. The country will continue to suffer a chronic food deficit and to be dependent on external aid for the foreseeable future.

Back to menu