Food assistance needs remain high in the Grand South

The earthquake and the passage of tropical depression Grace on August 14 and 16, 2021, respectively, led to an increase in food assistance needs, particularly in the Grand South. Poor households that have been displaced and those that have lost productive livelihood assets face reduced incomes and are unable to meet their food needs, amid high prices.

In addition, below-normal and erratic rainfall since July have negatively impacted the summer agricultural season and slowed the start of the autumn one. Overall, below-average harvests are expected in October and November, as rainfall is not favorable for normal crop development.

Since July, a resurgence of criminal activity has been observed in the Haitian capital, characterized by kidnappings, armed clashes, in addition to protest movements. This has led to disruptions to public transport and notable shortages of food and fuel, with the forced closure of warehouses and gas stations.

The areas affected by the earthquake (Sud, Nippes, Grand'Anse) and tropical depression Grace (Sud-Est), those where harvests will be below average (Nord-Ouest, Nord-Est, Haut Plateau, Haut Artibonite, Ouest), and Port-au-Prince, under the influence of gangs, will be in Crisis (IPC Phase 3), with households still forced to adopt crisis strategies to meet their food needs. In some areas of Sud, Grand'Anse and Nippes, such as Camp Perrin, Maniche, and Pestel, humanitarian assistance is allowing poor households to meet their food needs, and they facing Stressed ! (IPC Phase 2!) outcomes until October.