In the political arena, the main parties have held primaries to select their representatives for the 120 constituencies.  In the process some big fish were dropped.  The election campaign has gathered momentum with the President calling for peaceful campaign.  Contrary to this the government has not yet fully endorsed the SADC election guidelines.  The President has not signed or commented on the Bill as was expected.  To the NGO Community the silence/delay on the Bill has brought more confusion.  The delay can also be used as a strategy to keep the NGO Community confused and keep them away from their operations.  NPA held various meetings with partners and other strategic and agreed that work should continue and find ways to go round the “gate keepers”.  To date it has worked.  The economic situation remains poor.  The season has received poor rains to date and this means the nation would need protracted drought relief.  The position taken by NPA to remain in the country is appreciated by partners and the local authorities that we link up with.