In 2024, Cameroon faces a severe food security crisis due to conflict and flooding, affecting crop production. Over 3 million people are predicted to experience significant food insecurity, as prices for staple foods remain high, driven by a 7.6% inflation rate.
The food security situation in Cameroon for 2024 continues to worsen due to ongoing conflicts and adverse weather conditions. Crop production has been significantly affected, particularly in northern regions. In the unimodal rainfall zone, harvesting of millet and sorghum was completed in November 2024. However, exceptional flooding in the Far North Region destroyed over 85,000 hectares of agricultural land, affecting 450,000 individuals and leading to the loss of livestock and fodder areas.
The agricultural challenges are compounded by escalating prices of staple foods. Data from the National Statistics Institute indicates a 7.6% inflation rate in 2024, primarily due to rising food costs. Locally produced maize saw price fluctuations, initially dropping after a spike but later rebounding by 15% in late 2024. Meanwhile, prices for imported rice have also remained consistently high compared to the previous year.
A significant portion of the population is facing critical food insecurity in 2024. The latest analysis from Cadre Harmonisé (CH) in October 2024 identified over 3 million people, or 11% of Cameroon’s total population, experiencing severe acute food insecurity, classified as CH Phase 3 (Crisis) or worse. This situation stems from persistent conflict in the Far North, Northwest, and Southwest regions, in addition to the flooding that has displaced many communities.
Cameroon’s food security crisis in 2024 is marked by poor crop production linked to conflict and flooding. The rise in staple food prices adds to the population’s vulnerability, with over 3 million people facing severe food insecurity. Addressing these issues requires urgent interventions in conflict-affected areas and support for agricultural recovery amidst adverse weather impacts.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
