Food access is deteriorating in areas with high concentration of displaced population

Since last harvests in December, most prefectures of the country have seen an increase in fights. More than 3,261 incidents have been reported during the first trimester including exactions against civilians and humanitarians, of which 6 people have lost their life. The number of internally displaced (IDP) is estimated around 700,000, concentrated in the prefectures of Haute-Kotto, Ouaka, Ouham, Ouham Pendé, Basse-Kotto and Nana-Gribizi.

Due to low production for the past campaign, IDPs and poor host households depend on the market for their supply. The increase in prices for cassava and maize among others when compared to last year reached between 33 and 44 percent, and as much as 80 percent for the cassava in Paoua. The decrease of income because of insecurity reduces food access for IDPs and host households. 

During the current sowing period, moderate rain deficit has been observed in part of the country, but the main challenge is access to seeds and insecurity. FAO and its partners plan in supporting around 44,000 people, but the conflict is limiting humanitarian assistance. Moreover, Fall Army Worm could discourage maize producers. 

Therefore, Stressed (IPC Phase 2!) acute food insecurity will remain for households beneficiating from humanitarian assistance, and will reach Crisis (IPC Phase 3) in inaccessible areas.