FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 04/00 - VENEZUELA (27 March)
Rehabilitation and reconstruction programmes continue to be implemented in the states affected by the heavy incessant rains resulting in mudslides, landslides and flooding in December. The disaster caused about 30 000 victims and more than 68 000 homeless, apart from huge damage to the infrastructure of the country. Principally affected were the capital of Caracas and the urban areas of the state of Vargas in the north, as well as other urban areas in several northern states. The agricultural sector was also affected, particularly the states of Miranda, Falcón and Yaracuy, and to a lesser extent in Zulia, Táchira, Cojedes, Trujillo and some farm areas in Vargas. Damage to cereal crops was not significant as harvesting had already been completed, but important foodcrops for the rural population such as roots, tubers and plantains were affected. Export crops such as cocoa and coffee were also affected. The food supply situation is stable although food aid from the international community continues to be distributed and technical assistance projects for the immediate rehabilitation of the agricultural sector are being discussed with the Government. The projects will directly benefit 6 000 affected rural families. Planting of the 2000 first (main) season maize and paddy crops should start from April.