Rains started in late February in the south-east, becoming widespread over the entire country only in late March, which is quite late. Precipitation remained abundant and widespread in April, May and early June, and decreased during the second and third dekad of June. Cumulative rainfall as of the end of June is reported normal to above normal. The season is well under way and planting period for upland (rain-fed) rice is just over. Food production in 1997 is expected to improve somewhat from past years. Relative peace and stability continue to prevail throughout the country and have exerted a positive influence on farming activities. The farming population has been very busy with land preparation and planting, particularly in Lofa, Bong and Nimba counties considered to be the grain basket of the country. Therefore, the cultivated area this year should be substantially higher than in 1996. Although the lack of hand tools and the limited stock of rice seed were limiting factors, this was alleviated by a massive seed and tool distribution programme. Preliminary reports show that some 118 000 vulnerable families, or some 55 percent of the total, should have been reached by the seed and tool distribution programme. No major climatic constraint or pest have been reported. Rice and cassava yields should be similar to the estimates for the 1996 growing season.
Following the disarmament and demobilization of some 21 300 soldiers, security conditions are returning to normal. A peace keeping force is deployed in the country and national presidential elections were held in mid July 1997. The food supply situation is improving following recovery of trade and commercial activities. The displaced population is spontaneously returning to areas of origin. Data collected by international organizations show that at least 50 000 Liberian refugees have resettled in Lofa, Nimba and Grand Gedeh counties during the first five months of the year. At the same time the numbers of internally displaced persons in Monrovia and Buchanan were sharply reduced with at least 100 000 people moving mainly to Grand Bassa, Rivercess, Bomi and Cape Mount counties. Food aid is being distributed to cover consumption needs during the planting season. Food supply on the urban market is stable and, in general, prices have declined since the beginning of the year. In particular, the price of imported rice in Monrovia has gone down from 25 Liberian Dollars/kg to 21 Liberian Dollars/kg. However, the food supply situation in rural areas will continue to be tight, especially during the lean season of August-September. Overall, Liberia will remain dependent on food aid, especially for the counties with a high number of returnees.