FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 1-2/00 - Mozambique
Torrential rains in the first dekad of
February in the south of the country has resulted in the worst floods in
50 years, causing a large number of deaths and considerable damage to infrastructure
and housing. Many towns have become isolated due to the destruction of
roads and bridges, while continuous rains are hindering evacuation and
relief operations. As a result of contamination of drinking water, diseases
such as malaria and cholera are expected in the coming weeks. The number
of the people severely affected by the floods is currently estimated at
300 000 but is rising. Worst affected area is the province of Maputo; the
number of displaced people in the cities of Maputo and Matola is estimated
at 150 000. The Government has appealed for US$2.7 million in international
assistance to cope with the emergency but this amount does not include
the cost of food assistance. WFP is currently distributing emergency food
aid to 150 000 persons in the country.
The outlook for this year's cereal harvest
is poor. Anticipated crop losses in southern parts will add to planting
reductions due to erratic and highly localized rains since the beginning
of the season in November. An assessment of the agricultural and crop losses
is underway. However, preliminary indications point to an urgent need for
seeds and tools to increase plantings profiting from water recession.