Planting of the 2002 second-season foodcrops is completed. The early outlook is favourable reflecting abundant rains at sowing. The output of the 2002 first season crops, mainly of non-cereal foodcrops, was good. Production of cereals and beans remained almost unchanged. Food prices that declined at harvest time in December/January remain stable.

Food assistance continues to be required for some 432 000 internally displaced people as a result of insecurity in parts. Intensified fighting between Government forces and rebels in the past month has resulted in fresh waves of population displacement, particularly in Bujumbura Rural province.