Rwanda Food Security Outlook Update February 2013

Food security improves among poor households following harvests

KEY MESSAGES

• Rain gauge data in eastern Rwanda indicate that season 'A' rainfall levels were below-average. This poor rainfall caused a 60-80 percent decline in crop production in some areas. In particular, significant crop losses have been noted in almost all sectors of Kayonza (Ndego, Murama, Kabare, Rwinkwavu, Mwiri and Murundi) and Kirehe (Nyamugali, Kigarama, Mahama, Mpanga, Gahara, Nyarubuye and Nasho). These areas will face Stressed (IPC Phase 2) oucomes from now through June.

• Heavy rains, erosion, and crop diseases caused below-average harvests in the Eastern and Western Congo Nile areas. While households in these areas are currently relying on their own food stocks, they will become market dependant two to three weeks earlier than normal and will face Stressed (IPC Phase 2) food security outcomes from April to June.

• For the rest of the country, recent season 'A' harvests have replenished food stocks, improving food availability and access. Poor households are currently able to meet both essential food and non-food needs and are facing Minimal/None (IPC Phase 1) acute food insecurity.