CONGO, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF * (15 September)
Food production continues to be disrupted by the civil war, particularly in eastern parts. In the Kivu region, despite favourable growing conditions during the past months, production of the 2002 second season was reduced by the intensification of military activities that resulted in new population movements. In the provinces of Katanga, Eastern and Western Kasai, where better security conditions prevail, the 2002 food production was sharply reduced by dry weather. These provinces normally cover a large part of their food requirements through imports from neighbouring countries. However, following reduced harvests in most southern Africa countries, supplies have greatly diminished. The food situation is serious. A local UN Inter-Agency Mission is assessing relief requirements. Distributions of food and agricultural inputs by humanitarian agencies have already started.