"The return of rains has contributed to the acceleration of the pace of tillage, sowing and sales of agricultural inputs, including seeds and fertilizers. The heavy and widespread rains recorded during the first ten days of January 2021 (83 mm on average) have been favorable for early cereal crops," according to a statement by the ministry.

These rains will have a very positive impact on the evolution of the agricultural season as they will improve the cover crop in general, revitalize maintenance works (chemical weeding) and increase the storage capacity of dams for agricultural use.

The storage capacity of dams for agricultural has now reached 5.48 billion m3 (41%) against 6.23 billion m3 the previous year, the statement said.

The heavy rains that affected much of the national territory starting November, 20, 2020, have gradually reduced the rainfall deficit. Thus, the national average cumulative rainfall as of January 13, 2021 amounted to 180.6 mm, a 50% increase compared to last year (120.3 mm), it concluded.