FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 09/01 - SWAZILAND (10 September)

SWAZILAND (10 September)

An FAO/WFP Crop and Food Supply Assessment Mission that visited the country last May estimated the 2001 cereal output at 80 000 tonnes, almost entirely maize. At this level, production was close to the reduced crop of the previous year. The poor harvest reflects a prolonged mid-season dry spell that adversely affected yields. As a consequence, cereal imports are forecast at a high level of 123 000 tonnes, including 48 000 tonnes of wheat and 68 000 tonnes of maize. Although most of this requirement is expected to be covered on commercial terms, food assistance may be needed by the most affected households, particularly in the Middle and Lowerveld provinces.