Increase of internally displaced populations and fights are disrupting livelihoods

Recent fights among armed groups in the North-West have caused the displacement of 65,000 people in December in Paoua, bringing the amount of internally displaced people to 698,300 (OCHA, January 2018), or 74 percent more than January 2017. Moreover, in Berberati prefecture, the destruction of a bridge and the control of roads by armed groups have forced certain humanitarian actors to step back. 

In addition to pressure on food and economic resources by displaced populations in host areas, the increase in violence leads to field abandonment. Therefore, despite a positive campaign regarding precipitations, the decrease in cropped surfaces and difficulties to access the fields because of insecurity have led to a below average food availability. This will lead to an early start of the agricultural lean season in April instead of June. 

The implementation of roadblocks and destruction of roads disrupt the supply of aid to populations. Additionally, racketeering on traders by armed groups as well as looting and destruction of stores are leading to disruptions in market supply, contributing to staple prices increase. 

Deterioration of livelihoods and decrease of purchase power are leading displaced and poor host populations in areas covered by humanitarian assistance to Stress (IPC Phase 2!) food security outcomes, while inaccessible areas are facing Crisis (IPC Phase 3) food security outcomes.