Central African Republic Food Crisis Persists Amid Insecurity, Fuel Shortages, and High Prices

Between August 2026 and January 2027, the Central African Republic remains in Crisis (IPC Phase 3) in the northeast, northwest, and Haut‑Mbomou, where ongoing insecurity blocks access to fields, income‑earning opportunities, and major trade routes. Harvests that begin in October in the north are projected to stay below average in conflict‑affected and displaced areas, forcing households to borrow and sell assets while still experiencing gaps in food consumption. Market conditions remain poor across several prefectures because fuel shortages, seasonal road deterioration, and security constraints raise transportation and marketing costs. In Ouaka, Mbomou, Basse‑Kotto, Nana‑Mambéré, and central and southwestern prefectures, Stressed (IPC Phase 2) outcomes will dominate through January 2027. Although maize, groundnut, cassava, and rice harvests will gradually improve food availability and replenish household stocks, above‑average food prices, high transport costs, and limited income will continue to prevent many poor households from meeting essential non‑food needs.