Central African Republic Food Crisis Persists Amid Insecurity, Despite Seasonal Gains

The Central African Republic continues to face a Phase 3 food crisis in the most conflict‑affected prefectures—Vakaga, Haute‑Kotto, Haut‑Mbomou and parts of the northwest—through January 2027. While the lean season ends in October and agricultural activity improves in the north, insecurity, high prices and limited purchasing power keep food access low. Households in these areas are increasingly cutting meals, taking on debt and selling assets. In contrast, Bamingui‑Bangoran and several central and southern prefectures are moving toward a Phase 2 status as maize, groundnut and cassava harvests begin to lift food availability and reduce market dependence. Persistent fuel shortages and transport costs keep cereal prices high in isolated zones, undermining market supplies even as harvests in more stable areas start to improve.