Localized rains fell over northern and far north-western parts in late October and land preparation is underway for the planting of the 1997/98 cereal crops to be harvested from April. As much of the country is expected to experience below-normal rainfall during the upcoming season as a result of the current El Niņo phenomenon, drought warnings have been issued by the Government. Farmers have been advised to plant at different dates using several varieties of short-season maize.
1997 cereal production is estimated at 1.1 million tons, including maize output of 0.96 million tons, 32 percent lower than last year. The output of paddy and sorghum is also forecast to decline by some 14 percent and 6 percent respectively from 1996. In contrast, millet production is forecast to remain unchanged at some 55 000 tons.
Reflecting reduced domestic availability, the food supply situation for the 1997/98 marketing year is expected to be tighter than the previous year. However, cereal import requirements of some 320 000 tons are expected to be covered through commercial channels. Much of the maize imports are expected to originate from countries in the sub-region, particularly South Africa and Zimbabwe.