FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 09/01 - ANGOLA* (7 September)
As a result of an expansion of 13 percent in the area planted, generally favourable weather and increased distribution of agricultural inputs, the 2001 cereal production was estimated by an FAO/WFP Crop and Food Supply Assessment Mission last May at 581 000 tonnes, 15 percent higher than in the previous year. The increase in the area planted reflected a relative improvement in the security situation which allowed progress in allocating land to internally displaced people (IDPs) within secure areas. Maize output was estimated at 429 000 tonnes, 9 percent above the level of 2000. Millet and sorghum production rose by almost one-third to 148 000 tonnes. The cassava crop also increased significantly. By contrast, bean output declined by 10 percent as a result of dry spells in northern areas.
The cereal import requirement in the 2001/02 marketing year (April/March) has decreased from the previous year to 581 000 tonnes of cereals, including 176 000 tonnes of food aid. Despite the improvement in domestic production, the food supply situation remains difficult for 2.7 million IDPs. While large numbers have been allocated land, very few have been able to return to their original homes. Movement of persons and goods continues to be restricted due to persistent insecurity and landmines. The FAO/WFP Mission estimated that about 1.34 million of IDPs were still in need of food aid. However, pledges until today fall well below requirements. WFP estimates that if more pledges are not received within a month, food aid supplies will run out towards the end of the year. Renewed fighting in early September in several areas, particularly the northern province of Lunda-Sul and the southern provinces of Benguela and Huambo, has also exacerbated the already precarious food supply situation.