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The El Niño weather phenomenon brings with it significant variations in typical weather patterns. For Malawi, that variation often takes the form of severe dry weather, impacting agricultural growing conditions and harvests. A new IFPRI Malawi Strategy Support Program Policy Note looks at the potential implications of the current El Niño conditions on Malawi’s agriculture and food security, as well as ways for policymakers and farmers to strengthen the resilience of their response. Maize yields have declined in Malawi in 8 of the last 12 years in which the El Niño phenomenon occurred.

Key takeawaysWomen and girls in many countries are bearing the brunt of rising fuel and fertilizer prices triggered by the Iran war.Higher costs strain agrifood systems and exacerbate existing gender inequalities, further limiting women’s access to inputs, income, and food security.Gender-blind policy responses widen gender gaps.

Extreme weather events, including prolonged flooding and dry spells, continue to drive up acute food insecurity throughout mainland Tanzania, according to a new IPC analysis. An estimated 10 percent of the analyzed population will continue to face IPC Phase 3 (Crisis) food insecurity or above through May 2026, with as many as 1 million people in Phase 3 and unable to meet their daily food needs. Consistent climate shocks coupled with ongoing market instability have significantly reduced households’ purchasing power, particularly in rural areas.

The risk of famine continues to grow in South Sudan as a result of continued and spreading conflict. According to a new IPC Alert released this week, by July, as many as 7.8 million South Sudanese—more than half the analyzed population—will face acute food insecurity, while around 73,000 people in four counties will be at risk for IPC Phase 5 (Catastrophe) levels of food insecurity, including famine and starvation.

In Malawi, the food system remains stubbornly centered on maize, dominating both production and consumption despite clear policy ambitions for greater crop and diet diversity. While nutritionists and agronomists warn of its limited nutritional value and its vulnerability to climate change, average consumption remains high at 2.8 kg per person per week. This dependence on a single staple leaves the nation’s food security at constant risk of harvest failure.