ARTICLE - HAITI - FOOD SECURITY OUTLOOK

HAITI: FOOD SECURITY OUTLOOK JANUARY THROUGH JUNE 2011
(ReliefWeb) - Source: Famine Early Warning System Network (FEWS NET)

Full_Report (pdf* format - 807.1 Kbytes)

KEG MESSAGES

• The cholera outbreak is still spreading, though at a somewhat slower pace since the beginning of the dry season (from January to April). However, there could be a surge in the number affected with the onset of the rainy season (from April to June). The impact on the agricultural sector could me substantial with the fear of contracting cholera discouraging farm laborers and farmers alike from working in irrigated crop-growing areas, particularly in the Artibonite. This is affecting output and the incomes of households dependent on farming activities in this part of the country.

• Food prices in general, and rice prices in particular, are currently above 2008 prices. This trend could continue throughout the first half of this year, limiting the food access of poor urban and rural households dependent on local markets for their food supplies.

• The results of the November 28th elections trigging violent demonstrations in December of last year are creating a climate of uncertainty in the Haitian capital. This could delay investment and reconstruction efforts in areas impacted by last year's devastating earthquake. In addition to paralyzing business and other types of activity, this uncertainty could also limit job prospects across the country.

• This environment will only further erode food security conditions for the poorest segments of the population. According to estimates by the National Coordination for Food Security (CNSA) and its partners (FEWS NET, the World Food Programme (WFP), etc.), more than three million people, including approximately 900,000 residents of the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area, will require assistance, particularly at the height of the lean season (April/May). So far, most food insecure households are very poor and poor households in areas affected by the cholera outbreak and Hurricane Thomas and remote rainy mountain areas. Also included in this category are earthquake victims living in camps and poor districts of the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area.

Full_Report (pdf* format - 807.1 Kbytes)