In Eswatini, an estimated 243,483 people, equivalent to 20 percent of the population, are experiencing IPC Phase 3 (Crisis) in the current period, spanning from June to September 2024. In the projected period, from October 2024 to March 2025, the number of people experiencing IPC Phase 3 or above (Crisis and worse) is expected to rise to 269,594 people in IPC Phase 3 an additional 34,161 individuals classified as IPC Phase 4 (Emergency).

The increased food prices, prolonged dry spells and reduced incomes are some key drivers contributing to the food insecurity situation in Eswatini.

• Prioritize providing humanitarian support to the most vulnerable households in IPC Phase 3 or above.
• Establish emergency grants or subsidies, specifically for purchasing seeds and fertilizer for the upcoming season.
• Promote diversified and inclusive livelihoods, especially for persons with disabilities.
• Offer training and support to smallholder farmers on effective crop management practices. This should include reducing post-harvest losses through improved handling and storage techniques.
• Introduce and enhance access to climate-smart production technologies, such as tunnels, shade nets, and drip irrigation systems. These technologies can improve production, especially for vegetable crops, and enhance water efficiency.
• Implement nutrition interventions, specifically designed to prevent and treat malnutrition among children and women affected by food insecurity.
• Promote a stratified pro-poor farming inputs subsidy program that considers different wealth groups’ financial capabilities and farm sizes.