Farming battle continues in Kosovo

21 October 1999



Farming battle continues in Kosovo

FARMING in Kosovo is still in total disarray months after the end of the war, reports the Financial Times.

The biggest impact has been on cereal production. This year, the countrys wheat crop amounted to 110,000 tonnes, 35% of the normal level.

Maize production this year is estimated at about 55,000 tonnes, some 20% % of a normal crop.

A report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation says cattle numbers were halved because of the war.

Numbers of small livestock and chickens have fallen by 80%.

UN officials estimate it will take two to three years to clear minefields and destroy bombs. Contamination of wells with petrol and dead livestock was widespread.

• Financial Times 21/10/99 page 40