Despite a favourable onset of the 2002 secondary “belg” season and consequent optimistic crop prospects, poor rainfall distribution and early cessation have resulted in a rather alarming food outlook in several parts of the country. The belg crop accounts for some 10 percent of total grain production but in some areas it provides most of the annual grain production. The main “meher” rainy season is also off to a poor start with the important July and August rainfall well below normal. Heavy rains were mainly confined to small areas in the western highlands, although moderate to heavy showers hit parts of north-central in August.
In response to this alarming situation the Government renewed its appeal on 3 September to the international community to respond to an uncovered deficit of about 104 000 tonnes. Of immediate concern are Afar and Kereyu pastoralists in the east and north-eastern parts of the country. Loss of large numbers of livestock and unusual migrations in search of water and pasture are reported. Other areas of concern include low lands of Bale and Hararghe in Oromia Region, and Shinile, Fik, Dagahbour and Jijiga Zones in Somali Region. The sharp fall in grain prices following the bumper 2001 main “meher” harvest is now reversed with sharp rises reported in parts.
An Emergency Operation valued at US$51.1 million was jointly approved in May 2002 by FAO and WFP for food assistance to 2.1 million small scale farmers and drought-affected pastoralists for a period of 12 months (1 April 2002 to 31 March 2003).