FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 06/00 - SOMALIA* (13 June)
Although good rains were received between mid-April/earlyMay, little or no rains were received since, adversely affecting the growing conditions for the 2000 “Gu” season. Poor rains were also received in the more vulnerable rainfed crop areas of Bakool and Gedo, while below average rains were recorded in Hiran and Bay. Some flooding was also reported in some central and southern parts due to heavy rains. Overall, plantings and productivity of cereal crops remain constrained due to insecurity and shortages of seeds and other agricultural inputs.
Despite some improvement of the food supply situation in parts of southern Somalia with a better Deyr harvest in February 2000, more than 650 000 people are facing severe food shortages. Hardest hit are Bakool, Gedo, Bay and Hiran Regions where the Deyr harvest failed. With an uncertain prospect for the main “Gu” rainy season, which accounts for about three- quarters of annual crop production, the overall food supply situation is remains precarious.
Elsewhere, in north-western Somalia (Somaliland) and northeastern Somalia (Puntland), food supply and pasture conditions are anticipated to improve following good and well distributed rains in April and May. However, some 200 000 poor pastoralists are reported to be facing food and water shortages.
Food aid distributed in southern Somalia in May 2000 amounted to about 1 560 tonnes.
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