A resurgence of fighting in the Pool region (surrounding the capital Brazzaville) at the end of March led to new population displacements. About 50 000 IDPs have been reported in the region. Some areas have been cut off from humanitarian aid since late March. The displacement of people and disruption of marketing activities have seriously affected the food supply situation. In late May WFP started assisting 20 000 IDPs, amidst growing concern about tens of thousands more people trapped in the conflict areas inaccessible to aid agencies. The Emergency Operation for the assistance of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s refugees in the north of Congo Brazzaville that was due to end on 31 May 2002 has been extended until December.
Cereal imports for the 2002 marketing year are estimated at 125 000 tonnes, mostly wheat and rice.