statistical data base development is also carried out. Recently, the secretariat has started a new programme devoted to environmental statistics. - 16 - 19. In addition, the secretariat regularly produces the African Statisti­ cal Yearbook, the Directory of African Statisticians, the Statistical News­ letter, the Directory of STPA Centres, STPA News, Foreign Trade Statistics for Africa Series 'A* and 'C', the Statistical Information Bulletin for Africa and African Socio-economic Indicators. 20. During the period under review, two meetings were held. These were: (a) A workshop on household surveys (Lusaka, Zambia, 1-6 October 1984) which was sponsored jointly by the secretariat and the Commonwealth Fund for Technical Co-operation in collaboration with the Government of Zambia ; (b) A training workshop on census-taking and the use of software packages (Yaounde, Cameroon, 1-26 October 1984). The meeting was attended by 24 participants from French-speaking African countries. 4. Food and agriculture 21. Secretariat activities in the food and agriculture sector have been oriented towards building up capabilities in selected key areas including agricultural planning and policies; development and conservation of forest resources; promotion of integrated rural development; improvement of small­ holding agricultural institutions; harmonization and co-ordination of livestock policies and programmes; prevention of food losses; improvement of food security; and formulation of sound agricultural marketing policies. 22. In the domain of agricultural planning and policies a five-year development plan embracing the food and agriculture sector has been formulated for Burundi, Rwanda and Zaire a study entitled "Options for a Planning Unit and Investment Centre or a Subregional Consulting Firm in ECOWAS"has been carried out and submitted to the ECOWAS secretariat and to FAO headquarters; a technical document on the improvement of agricul­ tural planning capacities in Africa has been produced; a report on traditional subsistence farming in Africa has been prepared for submission 
**Analysis**
The text primarily discusses the activities and programs of a secretariat related to statistical data, environmental statistics, and food and agriculture. The text highlights the secretariat's efforts in building capabilities in key areas of agricultural planning, policies, and development, as well as conservation and promotion of forest resources. These activities suggest a strong focus on agriculture, forestry, and fishing, as well as natural resources and environment.

**Category**
Agriculture, forestry and fishing, Natural resources and environment