Belg 2026 Seasonal Agromet Assesment and Kiremt 2026 Outlook

In general, when looking at the onset, amount, and distribution of the moisture conditions during the 2026 Belg season, the Belg rains started early in certain western-half Belg-beneficiary areas of the country particularly in Southwest Ethiopia, Sidama, Central Ethiopia, Central and Western Oromia, and a few areas of Western Amhara receiving light to heavy amounts of moisture. However, in the month of February, dry soil moisture conditions were observed across most parts of the country. Although this had a somewhat negative impact on areas that start their Belg farming activities early, it played a positive role in harvesting mature crops cultivated through irrigation during the Bega season.

Nevertheless, during the consecutive Belg months following February, the moisture amount and distribution across most Belg-producing areas of the country had a positive impact on both field preparation and sowing. It was also beneficial for meeting the water requirements of early-sown Belg crops, perennial plants, and vegetables. Furthermore, it supported the drinking water and pasture supply in pastoral and semi-pastoral areas, specifically providing a favorable opportunity for sowing Belg season crops in the southern and southeastern pastoral and semi-pastoral areas where the Gu/Genna rains are expected. Additionally, the moisture that expanded toward the western half of the country starting from April created conducive conditions for field preparation to sow long-cycle crops.

On the other hand, heavy rainfall exceeding 30 mm within 24 hours was recorded in some locations of the country, which created a good opportunity for moisture-stressed areas to harvest and store rainwater. However, associated with the heavy and continuous rainfall during the Belg season, flash floods, hailstorms, landslides, as well as crop diseases and pests occurred in various parts of the country. Reports indicate that varying degrees of damage were inflicted on crop and livestock productivity in areas such as Wolaita, Gardula, South Omo, West Hararghe, Wuchale, Enderta, Halaba, Gamo, Gedeo, Fafan, Jara, and Gololcha.