National rice harvest is estimated to be near 80 percent of normal

In north-central Madagascar, where normally 20 percent of national rice production is harvested, was only 50 percent cropped and received only 40 percent of average rainfall during the growing season. Rice production in the Southeast Highlands and Southwest was fairly good, though production was reduced by 10-30 percent in the Southeast. Overall national production is expected to be 3.2 MT (5 year average is 4 MT). Maize production in the South will be below average (only 50 percent of land was planted), though better than last year, despite good rains, due to lack of appropriate seeds during the cropping season, and damage from pests. Cassava production is expected to be average. Locusts may affect pulses and sweet potato production in the South.

Food prices have continued to rise since December in urban areas near to areas of below-average agricultural production, such as Mahajanga and Toamasina. Prices of local rice in these two areas rose by 28 to 38 percent between December 2016 and May 2017. However, prices have declined in other urban areas such as Ihosy and Fianarantsoa where production was near average and the harvest was beginning. Prices of local rice in these areas dropped by 14 to 21 percent within the same period. 

In the South, preliminary results of the food security survey conducted in March 2017 in 8 drought affected districts show a global improvement of the food insecurity situation compared to last year except in Betioky. Populations in the South require continued support via early recovery activities. OCHA and FAO will provide food assistance and agricultural support, respectively, until the end of May 2017. 

In cyclone affected areas, the revised flash appeal still targets 326,500 people with life-saving assistance and protection for the six month period after the cyclone made landfall. Some agencies intend to continue assistance until June, at the beginning of the harvest, provided funding availability. People have started harvesting short term crops such as maize, vegetables and pulses. However, households now depend more on markets and are purchasing less preferred foods such as beans, as prices of meat and other foods remain high.