Between June and September 2025, 193,000 people (16 percent of the population) in Eswatini are experiencing high levels of acute food insecurity and loss of livelihood, classified in IPC Phase 3 or above (Crisis or worse). Although food security has improved significantly compared to the same period last year, the situation is expected to deteriorate during the projection period (October 2025 to March 2026). An estimated 259,000 people (21 percent of the population) are likely to face Crisis or worse conditions, representing an increase of 66,000 people compared to the current period. The Lowveld Cattle and Maize (LCM) zone continues to experience the worst food security conditions, with over 72,000 people in Phase 3 or above, followed by the Dry Middleveld (DMV) and the Lubombo Plateau (LP) with nearly 30,000 people and more than 9,400 people in Phase 3 or above respectively. These numbers demonstrate persistently high food insecurity levels.

The country is recovering from high levels of food insecurity caused by El Niño–induced prolonged dry spells and frequent climatic shocks, including cyclones and hailstorms. While food security has improved, households continue to be affected by extended dry periods, rising food prices, and recurring hazards such as hailstorms and windstorms, which were the major shocks during the reporting period.

• Scale up emergency food assistance: Provide targeted food aid or cash transfers to the most vulnerable households, especially those in IPC Phase 3 or above (Crisis or worse), to address immediate food consumption gaps.
• Implement labour-based cash for work public works programs to provide income support while contributing to community infrastructure recovery (e.g., repairing storm-damaged roads, road clearing or repairing water systems).
• Strengthen plant and animal disease surveillance for early warning.
• Encourage diverse and balanced diets, emphasising locally available nutrient-rich foods to improve the nutrition status.
• Improve access to quality healthcare services, including antenatal care, immunisation, and treatment of common childhood and adult illnesses.