FOOD SECURITY SNAPSHOT
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Reduced agricultural output in 2012, following a prolonged dry spell earlier in the year
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Food security conditions deteriorate in the affected areas
Agricultural production declines in 2012 following a prolonged dry spell
Harvesting of the 2011/12 main season cereal crops was completed in June. Erratic and below normal rains were recorded across much of the country during the 2011/12 cropping season (October-June), causing a reduction in agricultural production by an estimated 400 000 tonnes compared to 2011’s output. Although the most severe rainfall deficits were recorded in the northern and coastal regions of the country, the large crop producing provinces of Huambo, Huila and Bie, which collectively contribute to over 50 percent of the national cereal output, were also affected by the dry period and irregular rains. Consequently, although official cereal production estimates are not yet available, national maize production is forecast to be below the previous year’s output. In the southern provinces, including Cunene and Cuando Cubango, which, along with Huila province, produce the bulk of the country’s sorghum and millet output, precipitation levels have been normal, benefiting crop development.