Conflict continues to cause elevated levels of acute food insecurity in the east and west of the country

Food consumption for most farming households is assured by grain production and current harvests of off-season products. Access to staples is facilitated by seasonal income from sales of off-season products and animal products that allow the majority of households to remain in Minimal (IPC Phase 1) acute food insecurity.

Access to cereals through market purchases still represents just a small proportion of households' food sources in March 2019 as household food stocks are still available. This is reflected in the weak market demand and a steady downward trend in grain prices, which is currently below the average of the last five years.

Stressed (IPC Phase 2!) acute food insecurity remains ongoing in the Diffa region as food assistance prevents worse outcomes for many. Food security outcomes will continue at this level until at least September 2019 due to the ongoing conflict that continues to severely hinder household livelihood activities.

Crisis (IPC Phase 3) acute food insecurity still prevails in the Tillabery region and will persist until at least September 2019. The food situation is particularly worrying in the areas bordering the border with Mali because of the effects of attacks by armed groups that continue to generate new displacement and disruption of sources of income and food as well as markets.