Among other primary needs, food security in the Central African Republic depends on subsistence agriculture (cassava, maize, groundnuts, sorghum, millet), cash crops (coffee, citrus, cotton), livestock, mining (diamond and gold) And picking along livelihood zones. The war of the "Selka" coalition, which spread across the whole country, starting from the North-West in February 2013, affected all livelihoods, farmers and herders in the foreground. Up to the analysis period, the security situation remains mixed.

UNHCR has estimated 206,000 IDPs in March 2013 and 58,870 refugees in neighboring countries, including 42,925 in the DRC. Families who have fled into the bush and / or who live in a commuting movement from village to bush are not counted but very important especially in Central and Central-East, which are the most affected areas since February 2013. Food availability at the household and market levels has been severely affected, as the rebellion has disrupted the agricultural season and at the same time stocks have been looted. Thus, the analysis showed that 31% of households are in a food crisis (IPC Phase 3), that is, they are marginally able to cover the minimum of their food needs by exhausting livelihood assets, which will lead to food consumption deficits; while 9% of households are in IPC Phase 4 (Emergency), ie extreme loss of livelihood assets, resulting in short-term food shortfalls. Only 5% were estimated in phase 1 and 55% in phase 2, level of food insecurity under pressure.

Taking into account the resources available for emergency food and agricultural assistance over a one-year period, only 28% of the needs are covered. For example, a special program is needed for the most vulnerable households to provide food during the lean season and to curb the already worrying rise in malnutrition.

The main factor driving food insecurity in the Central African Republic (CAR) is persistent conflict and it consequences of livelihoods, food stocks, cropping and harvest activities, mass displacement. These elements further exacerbate a situation of chronic food insecurity, extreme poverty and poor sanitation. 

In order to carry out a much more detailed and consistent analysis and to allow a harmonious planning of the socio-economic recovery, we recommend a thorough investigation of the livelihoods, food consumption and post-war nutrition situation. The product of this survey could feed into the next analysis and advocacy for livelihood rehabilitation and strengthening resilience to the various shocks that the country is experiencing. The development of strategies for the institutionalization of the IPC by the Government remains a priority in the short and medium term.