Based on the results of its post-harvest food security assessment, the Malawi Vulnerability Assessment Committee projected that in the April 2012 to March 2013 consumption period, 1.63 million people in 15 mainly southern districts will be unable to adequately access food in order to meet their basic needs. Southern Malawi has faced several consecutive years of poor harvests as a result of weather-related shocks, especially dry spells. In addition, the devaluation and depreciation of the local currency in May 2012 has significantly lowered consumer purchasing power as prices of basic commodities and staple food continue to rise. (FEWS, 31 Jul 2012)

An initial Food Insecurity Response Plan with an estimated budget of $48 million was presented by the Government of Malawi with the support of the humanitarian partners in August (Resident Coordinator, 30 Aug 2012).

The Malawi Vulnerability Assessment Committee conducted a follow-up assessment in Oct 2012 and projected that the number of vulnerable population had increased from 1.63 million to 1.97 million people, representing a 21% increase (Govt, 31 Oct 2012).

In December, FEWS reported that nearly all of the resources necessary to respond to the estimated 1.97 million people identified as food insecure were secured and humanitarian assistance was expected to continue as planned through March 2013. (FEWS, 31 Dec 2012) As of March, minimal acute food insecurity was expected in the south and throughout the rest of the country from April to June (FEWS, 26 Mar 2013).

Useful Links

• OCHA Regional Office for Southern Africa (ROSA)