FAO/GIEWS: Africa Report - November 1997:

COTE D'IVOIRE

CURRENT SITUATION

Light rains, which started in the south in early March became very abundant during the third dekad of the month over the whole country and remained widespread and abundant in April. In May, rainfall decreased in the first and second dekads, resumed towards the end of the month and remained abundant in June. A significant reduction occurred in July, August and early September over the south and the centre, where precipitation has been well below normal. In the north, millet and sorghum are currently harvested and a good harvest is expected following favourable growing conditions. In the south, rice is being harvested. Following poor rains from mid July to mid September in the south, the main maize and rice production is expected to be reduced compared to previous years. Upland rice, which accounts for the bulk of the Ivorian rice production has been severely affected by the dry period. The planting of the second maize crop, which usually takes place in late August, early September could not start before late September, due to a lack of rains. As a result, the second maize crop output might be poor if the rainy season stops before maturity.

The overall food supply situation is satisfactory and markets are adequately supplied. However, rice prices are higher than last year during the same period, probably due to mitigated crop output and an increase in import taxes. About 305 000 Liberian refugees are present in the western departments. Their nutritional status is reported to be adequate. WFP, NGOs and other donors estimated the caseload of Liberian refugees to be assisted from January 1997 at 175 000 people. The cereal import requirement for 1997 (January/December), is estimated at 505 000 tons, mostly wheat and rice.