During the current period of March to June 2024 which coincides with the post-harvest, 88,000 people (15 percent of the analysed population) are experiencing IPC Phase 3 or above (Crisis or worse). Of this population, 81,000 are in Crisis (IPC Phase 3) and 7,000 in Emergency (IPC Phase 4). Key drivers include decreased purchasing power, high prices for basic foods, fuel, and agricultural inputs, along with low food reserves and reliance on food purchases.

The seasonal hunger period from July to September 2024 will see the number of people facing high acute food insecurity (IPC Phase 3 or above) rise to 123,000 (21 percent of the analysed population). The Ch'orti' micro-region will remain the most affected, classified in Phase 3 with 24 percent of its population in IPC Phase 3 or above, including 4 percent in Phase 4. The other three micro-regions (Ocotepeque, Güija, and Cayaguanca) will be classified in IPC Phase 2 (Stressed) in both current and projected periods, but the number of people in acute food insecurity will increase in the first projected period.

From October 2024 to February 2025, a period of higher income generation is expected due to increased demand for labour for crop harvesting. However, 94,000 people (16 percent of the analysed population) will still be in Phase 3 or above. 

• Activate immediate social protection: Implement urgent social protection for populations in Crisis or Emergency (IPC Phase 3 or 4) to address food consumption gaps and save lives, especially those vulnerable to extreme weather events.

• Target affected populations: Identify and focus on populations in food crisis who have depleted their reserves and are using Crisis or Emergency strategies.

• Share analysis results: Present the findings to local authorities and potential donors to address food insecurity in the short and medium term.

• Develop a support strategy: Create a strategy to support vulnerable populations and strengthen livelihoods, aligning with national and local food security policies.

• Engage donors and institutions: Advocate for the inclusion of vulnerable groups in economic recovery projects with donors and government institutions.

• Maintain a surveillance system: Continue the Trinational Food and Nutrition Surveillance System (SITVAN) to ensure the availability of critical food security data.