was utilized at a rate of only 20 per cent in spite of a tropical climate and generous hydrological resources. He attributed the disappointing performance to the lack of incentives for agricultural production, the lack of production inputs such as fertilizers, agricultural credit and extension services for farmers, the inadequacy and obsolescence of transport infra­ structures, and the competition from imported products on the domestic market, 204. These shortcomings had had an impact on the income of farmers who had not been given assistance. Industry had not fared well either; only extract­ ive industries had shown moderate growth in real terms between 1981 and 1984 while manufacturing industries had suffered from a quasi chronic under-utiiization'of their productive capacity, 295 c That situation, together with a drop in foreign currency earnings and increasing investment needs, had resulted in excessive indebtedness with its subsequent heavy debt service. The gloomy economic situation was compounded by natural disasters such as drought which affected 16 of the 33 admini­ strative districts of the country and had compelled Guinea to request the Economic and Social Council in July 1981 in Geneva for international assistance. 206. He expressed satisfaction at the favourable reaction from donor countries, donor organizations and, in particular, those of the United Nations system which had assisted his country in the elaboration of a transitional programme of reconstruction for the period 1985-1987 according high priority to rural development, the development of infrastructure, and technical and professional training, 207.. He concluded by reiterating his firm commitment to endorse all recom­ mendations contained in the documents to be submitted to the Heads of State and to the Economic and Social Council so that the international community could become aware of the need to assist Africa to emerge from the present crisis. 205. The representative of Guinea-Bissau expressed his appreciation to 
**Analysis**
The text primarily discusses the economic challenges faced by Guinea, including agricultural underperformance, inadequate infrastructure, and excessive debt. It also mentions the impact of natural disasters and the country's request for international assistance. The text does not explicitly discuss health, education, employment, culture, or science and technology.

**Category**
Economic development, Agriculture, forestry and fishing, Industry, International trade, Humanitarian aid and relief