The outlook for the 1997 wheat and coarse grain crops remains generally favourable following timely and abundant rainfall throughout the country’s major producing areas in the past weeks. Average yields are now expected to be somewhat better than earlier anticipated, particularly in southern New South Wales where exceptionally dry conditions were experienced earlier in the season, attributed to El Niño. However, yields will nevertheless be down from last year’s bumper levels, and the overall area seeded to winter grains is estimated to have decreased by about 4 percent. The 1997 wheat crop is officially forecast at 17.6 million tons compared to last year’s record output of 23.7 million tons. Aggregate coarse grain output in 1997 (including the minor summer crop of mostly sorghum and maize harvested earlier in the year) is now forecast at some 8.7 million tons, compared to about 10.5 million tons in 1996. The recent rainfall has also improved prospects greatly for the summer coarse grain crop soon to be planted for harvest in 1998. COOK ISLANDS (28 November)
Cook Islands was hit by Tropical Cyclone Martin on 1 November 1997. Reports indicate that food crops have been destroyed in the three islands of the Northern Cooks (Pukpuka, Manihiki et Rakahanga), Manihiki being the worst affected. The degradation of the lagoon in Manihiki not only threatens fishing but also black pearl cultivation, the main income generating activity and a major export of the Islands. Government Departments are currently assessing rehabilitation needs by sector, and a consolidated project proposal with costs and priorities will then be submitted to the international community, for consideration by potential donors. The Government has initiated a Hurricane Safety Centre to monitor the cyclone’s movements and requested United Nations assistance to field a Disaster Assessment and co-ordination team to the country.
The United Nations DHA has fielded a two-person UNDAC team to arrive on 4 November. In a response to a request from the Crook Islands Government, 9 tons of locally-sourced relief goods (food, water, medical supplies and clothing) was dispatched to Maniiki on 4 November. PAPUA NEW GUINEA (28 November)
The prolonged drought which also resulted in severe frosts has seriously affected many parts of the country, particularly the Western and Southern Highlands where vegetation has dried up. The lack of moisture has made the soil extremely hard for people to plant, even crops such as sweet potatoes. Widespread bush fires resulting from the drought have destroyed crops, grassland and forests. Staple food crops have been wiped out in many areas. Substantial damage to cash crop production, such as coffee and tea has also been reported. Vegetables have been destroyed and people are reported to be starving. The food situation is precarious in the affected areas of the Highlands and other islands. Most of garden food have been wiped out and the remaining forest food is already much reduced by extensive burning of the bush. Reports indicate that more than 500 000 people are seriously affected by the drought and about 90 000 people live in the most severely affected areas with no food, water or income.
An AusAid sponsored Drought Assessment Team, together with representatives from the Government and the IFRC, as well as the PNG Red Cross Society and NGO representatives, have made an assessment and visited more than 500 villages across PNG. Needs for the affected areas include seeds and irrigation-related equipment. The government has made an Appeal for international assistance. A national consultant has recently been recruited by FAO to assess the most urgent needs in the agriculture and livestock sectors. SOLOMON ISLANDS (28 November)
Rainfall has been below average since June. As a result, most areas of the Islands are experiencing serious drought. Unofficial reports from rural areas, especially in Western, Choiseul, Central and Isabel provinces indicate that crops have seriously been affected. The effects on crops have become apparent with crops showing signs of wilting and stunt as a result of insufficient water. Soil has become very dry and has started to crack in some places.
Bellona Island (Rendel province) is reported to be suffering from food and water shortage. According to an assessment team which recently visited Belona, food is expected to run out within 4 weeks. A National Disaster Council (NDC) is monitoring the situation through Provincial Disaster Committees, Provincial Governments and line ministries.