Off-season harvests and normal livelihood activities maintain Minimal (IPC Phase 1) acute food insecurity across most of the country

Cultivation of main season crops and rice have normally began by this time, but this season they are slightly delayed in the southeastern and northwestern regions due to high temperatures and dryness. Farmers in other areas are expecting the elevated temperatures and dry conditions to continue into May/June. In contrast, early and heavy rains in the northern and central regions have disrupted farmers clearing sites for planting. Despite the heavy rains, some farmers have begun planting rice in the coastal areas.

Food availability continues to be normal for this time of the year as households access and consume off-season harvests of tubers, corn, and vegetable, while also participating in the collection of palm nuts, snails, mushrooms, and fishing activities. With steady imported rice prices, declining palm oil prices, and normal livelihood activities, most areas will face Minimal (IPC Phase 1) acute food insecurity through May. 

However, some day laborers in the charcoal, rubber, and mining industries will be unable to afford some essential non-food items, including transportation and fuel, because of the depreciation in the Liberian Dollar. This depreciation has reduced purchasing power for some poor households and Stressed (IPC Phase 2) acute food security outcomes are expected in these areas through May.