The onset of the rains in July permitted widespread plantings.
The first rains were received on 7 and 8 July on Santiago, Fogo, São Nicolau and Santo Antão islands. They continued regularly during the second and third dekads of July. Wet plantings started in most agricultural islands during the second dekad of July, while dry planted maize emerged satisfactorily in the humid zones of Santiago and Fogo islands. Distribution of seeds (maize and beans) to farmers is underway.Grasshopper infestations were reported in mid July in Tarrafal area (on Santiago island) and in late July in Santa Catarina, Santa Cruz and São Domingo areas. On Fogo island, insect infestations are reported in Ribeira Ilheu and Atalaia Campanas areas. Control measures are underway. Livestock is facing poor pastures particularly in coastal zones.