Falling staple food prices increase better food access

Season 2017 B crop production was average to above average across most of the country. Due to localized rainfall shortages, the districts of Bugesera (mainly in Rweru Sector) in Eastern Province and Rusizi in Western Province experienced below-average production. Minimal (IPC Phase 1) acute food insecurity is expected to persist through January 2018; however, during the lean season from October to November, poor households are likely to experience Stressed (IPC Phase 2) outcomes. 

With improved food availability, staple food prices have typically declined. However, according to the National Statistics Institute, food prices were still almost five and 12 percent higher in June 2017 than June 2016 in urban areas and rural areas, respectively. Prices in urban areas are typically lower than in rural areas since transportation costs are not as high. For beans and maize, prices are unlikely to decrease to last year’s levels due to anticipated WFP purchases for humanitarian assistance and the Government of Rwanda’s plans to replenish contingency reserves.

According to UNCHR, as of July 10, Rwanda hosted 86,149 Burundian refugees. The flow of asylum seekers continues to fall due to improving security in Burundi, and May 2017 arrivals matched levels two years ago. Due to significant funding gaps in its refugee program, WFP is likely to reduce its assistance to Burundian refugees. With no access to livelihood opportunities, Burundian refugees in camps are entirely dependent on WFP assistance and are likely in Stressed (IPC Phase 2!) acute food insecurity.