Famine Early Warning Systems Network

Key Messages

• Many parts of the region have received cumulatively near normal rainfall as of early January.

• Dry hot conditions in early January negatively affecting crops in southern parts of the region. These conditions are forecast to continue through to late January and may negatively affect yields in some areas if rainfall is not received soon.

• In some western areas of the region, onset of rains was over 30 days late, delaying planting resulting in reduced area planted as well as limiting crop-growing window, which could negatively impact 2023 harvest potential.

• Vegetation conditions are above normal in most parts of the region, supporting pasture and forage for livestock, including southern Madagascar which has experienced recurrent droughts in the last few seasons. However, vegetation conditions in Namibia and southern Angola are well below average, which will likely negatively impact livestock body conditions and productivity.

• With the season approximately halfway through, many parts of the region have experienced average to above average rainfall, and the forecast for the remainder of the season is favourable indicating favourable harvest prospects for many parts of the region.

• Low water levels in the Kariba dam are resulting in loadshedding in Zambia and Zimbabwe and may also negatively impact irrigation operations.

• Member States are encouraged to urge farmers and potential off-takers to start preparations for post-harvest care and marketing of crops to realise maximum benefit from the 2023 harvest.

• Member States are urged to put up contingency action plans for areas affected by poor rainfall performance and as well as by cyclones and flooding.