Following the civil strife in 1997, which severely disrupted food marketing activities and caused large-scale displacement of the population, especially from urban to rural areas, the situation appears to be on track towards recovery and reconstruction. It is estimated that the population of Brazzaville reached about 80 percent of its pre-war level, up from 70 percent in late 1997. Most of the estimated 50 000 refugees in the DRC have returned. However, food prices remain high due to transport and marketing constraints.