FAO/GIEWS: Africa Report - August 1997

ANGOLA

CURRENT SITUATION

A recent FAO/WFP Crop and Food Supply Assessment Mission estimated the 1997 harvest of cereals at 431 000 tons, some 14 percent lower than last year’s good harvest. This is due to below normal rainfall, characterized by a late start, an extended mid-season dry spell and a variable finish. Western coastal areas were the worst affected, resulting in canceled or delayed planting and lower yields. Moving eastwards, the season was better with more regular rainfall patterns and reasonable production opportunities. However, first quarter 1997 rains prompted late first season planting, particularly in the lower lying and riverine areas, plus planting on the slopes and hilltops on lighter soils in the same zones. Generally, rainfall from mid to late February onwards was favourable and well-distributed, sustaining the development of the later planted cereals, early planted cereals that withstood the dry spell, and roots, tubers, and perennials.

NGO and UN Agency interventions providing seeds and tools were noted in many provinces and have increased the area under cultivation in most Government-controlled areas where internally displaced persons and returnees are being equipped to farm. However, cereal production continues to be constrained by the shortage of fertilizers, plant protection equipment and chemicals, hand tools and animal traction equipment in the main producing areas.

The food supply situation in the country remains tight. With an estimated 10 000 tons of cereals stored on-farm in surplus areas, the domestic availability is 441 000 tons, of which 85 percent is maize and the remainder sorghum and millet. Domestic utilization is forecast at 972 000 tons, leaving a deficit of 531 000 tons to be met by imports. Commercial imports in 1997/98 are estimated at 279 000 tons, indicating a shortfall of 252 000 tons to be met by food aid. Some 128 000 tons of emergency food aid will be needed for vulnerable groups, including internally displaced persons, returnees and demobilized soldiers. In addition, food aid will be required to assist the rehabilitation process. Even among settled populations, food vulnerability remains high due to lack of income generating opportunities, low purchasing power, poor infrastructure, and an absence of transport and materials for movement of goods and commodities. Furthermore, the recent outbreak of hostilities in the north-east is likely to worsen an already precarious security situation, leading to increased need for food assistance.