Seasonal rains begin slowly in the southern and central areas

Food security outcomes projected in the October Outlook are still valid and no significant changes are expected. While a mild lean season continues, the majority of rural households are able to meet their basic food needs by expanding their typical livelihood strategies. Minimal food insecurity outcomes (IPC Phase 1) continue throughout the country.

As the lean season progresses, staple food price trends are similar to last year’s prices and below or near the five-year average. They are expected to continue to increase as the lean season progresses. For the remainder of the consumption year the prices for maize, the staple for the majority of households, is expected to follow the typical seasonal patterns. Maize prices are expected to peak in February before the seasonal harvests in March, while continuing to be close to the five-year average. These price levels will facilitate access to market purchases for market-dependent households.  

Rains began slowly in mid-October in the southern and central regions of the country, allowing for the initial planting in these areas. Over the past few weeks the intensity of the rains has decreased significantly, however the moisture and low temperatures continue to provide good growing conditions for the planted crops.  Rainfall is expected to start in the northern region in early to mid-December.