Executive Summary
TIGRAY REGION
Except for some areas in the central and western parts of the region, the onset of Meher rains in most parts of the region was delayed by 2-4 weeks. The rains were very low in amount and irregular in distribution, particularly in the lowlamdsying areas of the eastern half of the region. This year Meher rains withdrew early in the eastern half and timely in the western parts of the region.
The late start of the rains, its irregularity in distribution and its early withdrawal particularly in the central, eastern and southern parts of the region has negatively affected the crop development and its ultimate production. The production obtained this year in the region is reportedly 12% lower than the past five-year's average production
The absence of Belg rains and the poor performance of Kiremt rains has contributed for shortage of pasture in most low land areas of Central, N/Western, Southern and most parts of Eastern Zone. Consequently, the physical condition of livestock in these areas is relatively poorer than those in the mid and highlands.
On the other hand, there were no occurrences of livestock disease outbreak, unusual mortality and out migration in search of pasture and water.
Referring to human health situation there were no reports of unusual human mortality, morbidity, and mass migration due to food shortage problem in the region.
The food security prospect, particularly in the above mentioned lowland areas is affected mainly due to poor crop production and absence of other income generating opportunities.
Hence, a total of 388,646 affected people are estimated to need emergency food assistance for 6-10 months in 2005.
