FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 06/01 - TANZANIA (18 June)
Normal to above normal rains in January and February in most parts of the country benefited crops of the main “long rains” season in unimodal central and southern areas. Drier conditions in March may have caused stress to crops at the critical grain filling stages in parts of central regions but have also helped in reducing excessive moisture in flooded areas in southern and western parts of the country. A recovery in this year’s output from the reduced level of 2000 is anticipated.
In bi-modal rainfall areas of the north and north-east, despite a late start, good rains since April benefited the crops of the “Masika” season. The outlook for the harvest is satisfactory. However, crops in some regions were reported to have been affected by pests, including Quelea Quelea birds and Armyworm. Pastures and livestock are reported in good condition reflecting generally abundant rains.
The overall food supply situation is satisfactory. However, the food situation remains precarious in parts due to past successive crop failures.