FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 09/01 - CAMEROON (7 September)
Rains started in the south in March and became particularly abundant in the south and the centre in mid-April. They progressed northward and were widespread and above normal in May. From June, they decreased gradually in the south, but were regular and above normal in the north and the centre in July and August. The northeast registered heavy rains in late July and August while the south remained particularly dry. In the centre and north, soil moisture reserves are adequate and crop prospects are favourable.
The overall food supply situation is satisfactory except in the extreme north. A joint FAO/WFP assessment mission in late May estimated food aid needs at 19 000 tonnes for 80 000 families affected by poor crops due to drought, flooding or pest attacks in the north and extreme north provinces. Cereal imports for domestic use during the 2001 marketing year are estimated at 300 000 tonnes, mostly wheat and rice.