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Lesotho

Lesotho Key Message Update, March 2017

Attachments

Food access improves as households consume green foods

Key Messages

  • Humanitarian assistance continues in Lesotho in response to acute food insecurity. For very poor and poor households receiving assistance, this is their main cash and food source. As a result, food consumption and dietary diversity have improved due to assistance. Lesotho is currently projected to be Stressed (IPC Phase 2!), in the presence of assistance, from March to May. In the absence of ongoing assistance, the country would be in Crisis (IPC Phase 3).

  • The Water Requirement Satisfaction Index for the current period shows that maize crop is within average to good condition. Seasonal progress is going well and harvest prospects are positive across Lesotho.

  • In the mountains, almost all households are consuming green foods from their fields, while in other areas a smaller number of households are accessing greed foods. The consumption of green crops is improving food access in households as the peak of the lean season continues and as the harvest approaches. Consumption of green foods is expected to increase in other parts of the country within the next month. Minimal (IPC Phase 1) acute food insecurity outcomes are expected between May and September, after the upcoming harvest.