Land preparation and early planting has started in northern parts of the country for the 1997/98 season. As the country is located north of the area presumed to be affected by the El Niņo phenomenon, the impact on crops is anticipated to be minor. As in the past few years, NGO, donors and UN agency interventions will be highly needed for the supply of required agricultural inputs (seeds, tools and fertilizers) to internally displaced persons and returnees, and to farmers in main producing areas.

The national food supply situation continues to be tight. Due to the tense security situation of the past few months, access to some 20 to 40 percent of the country is limited and food difficulties are reported in some remote areas affected by drought (Cuanza Sul and Namibe). Food aid pledges by donors amount to 237 000 tons so far, of which 161 000 tons have been delivered.