be generally weak and if these trends are all owed to continue· this is likely to erode the comparative advantage of agriculture vis-a-vis other activities. The structural weaknesses of this sector are well known 4/ and call for immediate action. Cl csely related to the behaviour of the agricultural sector is that of manufacturing. In 1981 growth in value added generated in this sector shrank to 3.3 per cent or to about half the average for the preceding two years. Shortaqes of raw materials and power supply and lack of spare parts are among the major contributing factors to the situation. Shortages in petroleum, are affecting many sectors particularly transport, and high petroleum prices are leaving many countries no option except reduction of oil im­ ports and the toleration of 1 ower grCl'.lrth. Moreover, the general­ ly low and erratic mineral prices and demand is constraining development efforts in minerals dependent countries like Zaire and Zambia. Additionally, effective resource mobilization for optimum growth, is still lacking in view of low levels of resource planning and management ar>d urgent action is therefore required to redress the situation. 9. The above picture masks wide disparities in the performance of countries classified by 1970 incarne qroups 5/ and by sub­ regions. As noted above, both major oil exporters and non-oil exporters as a qroup experienced unprecedented hardships in 1980- -1982. In fact even those with present high growth face a similar prospect with the continuous deterioration in the inter­ natioml economic climate. 10. Save per capita income qroup $100 to under$ 200, all other ~ncome g:oups-either suffered losses or stagnation in ~~api~~ ~nc~es ~n 1981. Worst affected were the poorest group w~th E~E ~~!?!!-~ ~f less than $100 where the shortfall in av7rage E~E 
**Analysis**
The text discusses the economic situation of a region, highlighting the challenges faced by the agricultural, manufacturing, and mineral sectors. It also mentions the impact of oil prices and shortages on the economy, as well as disparities in the performance of countries. These topics suggest that the text is more focused on economic development and the related sectors rather than, for example, health, education, or culture.

**Category**
Economic development, Industry, Agriculture, forestry and fishing