GIEWS Country Brief: Burundi 11-November-2024 - Burundi

FOOD SECURITY SNAPSHOT

Delayed onset of the 2024 (September-November) short-rains season

The onset of the 2024 short-rains season, which normally extends from September to November, was delayed by about two weeks, delaying planting operations and affecting the germination of early planted crops. Above-average precipitation amounts since mid-September improved vegetation conditions of crops to be harvested between December 2024 and January 2025. According to the latest weather forecast by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development’s (IGAD) Climate Prediction and Application Centre (ICPAC), precipitation amounts during the remainder of the rainy season are expected at below-average levels, with a likely negative impact on yields of 2025A crops. Rainfall performance in the next weeks will be crucial for crop development and a close monitoring is warranted.

Average cereal output expected in 2024

Harvesting of 2024C season crops, accounting for about 15 percent of annual production, is currently underway in marshlands and irrigated areas and will conclude in November. Crop production prospects are overall favourable as yields were boosted by abundant precipitation amounts received during the second half of September which recharged water sources and by an increased use of improved maize seeds and fertilizers due government subsidies. Harvesting of 2024B main season crops, accounting for about 50 percent of the annual crop output, was concluded last July, while 2024A season crops, representing about 35 percent of the annual crop production, were gathered in December 2023 and January 2024. Production of 2024B and A season cereals (maize, sorghum and rice) and tubers (cassava and sweet potatoes) is estimated at average levels. During both cropping seasons, above-average rainfall amounts boosted yields, but triggered floods and the overflow of Lake Tanganyika which resulted in localized crop losses. Beans were significantly affected by moisture excess and production is estimated at below-average levels. Aggregate cereal production in 2024 is forecast at an average level of 460 000 tonnes.