ABSTRACT
According to a minicensus taken in 1982, the small farmer population is estimated at 503,000 persons as compared to 798,000 persons when a complete agricultural census was taken in 1973, a decrease of 37%. The farmer’s population was characterized by the predominance of women in farming. Respiratory diseases, malaria, tuberculosis, and afflictions due to intestinal parasites have been the primary causes of death. Trypanosomiasis, yellow fever, small pox, leprosy, and yaws have also been, at least until recent years, prevalent as well. It is estimated that 27% of total population and 6% of rural population have access to safe water. Low birth weights in rural zones and primipares in Brazzaville were also an indication of nutritional deficiencies in pregnant women. The rural road network and transportation facilities necessary to enable the farmers to participate in the marketing process remains a serious problem.
