In 2002 the Mongolian Red Cross Society (MRCS) took a proactive role in self development to address the increasing needs of its beneficiaries. Three consecutive years of severe summer droughts caused by dzuds has led to the decimation of the country's livestock, leaving Mongolia's extensive herding population without any means of earning a living. The MRCS with support from the International Federation continued to provide humanitarian assistance to families that had lost all or most

Prospects for 2003 cereal production are mixed. Early indications for the 2003 wheat crops point to a likely increase in global output. The first 2003 coarse grain crops are already

Appeal No. 05 / 2000; Launched on: 22nd February 2000 for 3 months for CHF 815,200 to assist 30,000 beneficiaries. Revised budget on 29th March 2000 to CHF 4,062,000, extending the operation by 9 months to assist 35,000 beneficiaries.

An early and heavy snowfall in many areas

As of September 2002, the number of countries facing serious food difficulties throughout the world stands at 32, with 21 in Africa, 6 in Asia, 3 in Latin America and 2 in Europe.

In southern Africa, the food crisis following two consecutive years of poor cereal harvests is worsening due to insufficient and slow food imports, both commercial and emergency relief. Prices of cereals are rising throughout the sub-region further curtailing access to food for large sections of the population. A series of FAO/WFP

As much as 70 per cent of the country is suffering from drought with temperatures reaching up to 60 degrees Celcius. This has in turn has affected hay and crop production and caused around 110 serious forest fires, which not only destroy trees but also the grass growing beneath them.

Rivers and wells have dried up while

This Ops Update is intended for reporting on emergency appeals.
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As of June 2002, the number of countries facing serious food difficulties throughout the world stands at 32, of which 21 are in Africa.

In southern Africa, the 2002 cereal production decreased sharply for the second consecutive year in most countries. The largest falls were in Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi. Only South Africa and Mozambique recorded increases. A prolonged dry spell from January and excessive rains in parts, coupled with reduced plantings in Zimbabwe due to land acquisitions activities, severely reduced plantings and yields.