Haiti - Economy : High prices accentuate food insecurity
The International Organization Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET) explains in its latest bulletin (March), updated, that following the announcement of confirmation of the first two cases of Covid-19 in Haiti on March 19 by the Ministry of Health 30319 , and measures taken by the Government such as the reduction of working hours, the closing of the Haitian-Dominican borders for the transport of people (the transport of goods is maintained) or the closure of textile factories and schools. Some markets have seen a massive increase in customers, which in some cases has resulted in a moderate to large increase in prices of up to 28% increase for black peas in Cap-Haitien.
FEWS NET notes that the socio-political situation remains calm, despite some panic movements observed in recent days in certain markets and supermarkets. However, moderate inflation remains, especially for food, which continues to affect the poorest households.
At the same time, favorable rains prompted farmers to start preparations for the spring campaign. In almost all regions, planting, notably of Congo peas, cassava, beans and corn, among others, is underway. This resulted in a slight rebound in demand for agricultural workers.
However, due to the high price of food, poor households will continue to adopt crisis and stress strategies to maintain their basic food consumption. Food insecurity in Crisis (IPC Phase 3) and Stress (IPC Phase 2) continues, with a gradual increase in the number of people in Crisis (IPC Phase 3) until the harvest of spring in June, after which this number should start to decrease.
