Expected average harvest will sufficiently cover local demand
KEY MESSAGES
Average to above-average Msimu rains in the unimodal areas will likely result in a near-normal harvest. Poor households remain market dependent and face income opportunity constraints following the conclusion of agricultural activities. This area is Stressed (IPC Phase 2) and will likely improve to Minimal (IPC Phase 1) with the beginning of the harvest season in May, but there will still be populations that have higher levels of food insecurity.
In the northwestern bimodal areas rainfall started late and has remained erratic due to the influence of El Niño. In the northeastern areas, Masika rains began on time and near-average rainfall levels are forecasted through May. Maize, rice and bean prices have decreased seasonally, and coupled with labor availability, will facilitate market purchases for poor households. Poor households in these areas will remain Stressed (IPC Phase 2) until the June Masika green harvest.
According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), about 3,350 Burundian refugees arrived in April. For earlier arrivals, some reported planting seasonal crops, and the majority will remain in None (IPC Phase 1!) acute food insecurity due to the ongoing humanitarian assistance deliveries planned through June. However, the majority of new arrivals are facing worse conditions and are Stressed (IPC Phase 2!) as they have limited incomes for market purchases.