Zimbabwe still hungry - UN

2009-06-25 14:43

Rome - Zimbabwe is still threatened by food shortages despite improved agricultural production and more liberal imports this year, two UN food agencies said on Thursday.

The Rome-based Food and Agriculture Organisation and the World Food Program said in a joint report that about 2.8 million people will face food shortages this year, as the total cereal availability reaches 1.4 million tons against a projected need of 2.1 million tons.

The report said this year's production of maize, the staple crop, is estimated to have increased by 130% compared with last year to 1.1 million tons, thanks to good weather.

However, wheat production next winter is estimated to be lower than ever at 12 000 tons, as a result of the high cost of fertilisers and quality seeds as well as lack of electricity for irrigation.

"This year's improved harvest comes after two consecutive years of poor production," said the World Food Program's Jan Delbaere, who worked on the report. "Having depleted their food stocks and sold livestock and other assets to cope with the effects of the recent crises, many rural households are still struggling to survive."

The agencies said a grain market reform in the country, including free movement and removal of import duties, also helped increase food production.

- AP