Haiti - The country hit by the worst drought in 35 years

16.02.2016 490 views
Since the beginning of 2015, Haiti faces the worst drought in the last 35 years, reports the National Coordination for Food Security (CNSA). The phenomenon "El Niño", which began in early 2015, one of the strongest ever recorded, could persist in 2016 and have an impact on food security in Haiti. This drought has resulted in considerable losses of crops and reduced availability of local food on markets, combined with a dramatic increase prices of these. Furthermore, significant water shortages were reported in the most affected departments (West, Central, South and Southeast). Agricultural losses amounted to over 50% (70% in some areas) compared to normal on the spring campaign of 2015, which represents nearly 60% of the annual production of the country. "If it does not rain before the 2016 harvest, it will mean that many farmers will lose their third consecutive harvest and can not meet the needs of their families," said Wendy Bigham, Deputy Director of the World Food Programme WFP in Haiti "We have to help them cover their immediate needs while helping them build their resilience. " According to CNSA, 3.6 million Haitians are currently in a situation of severe food insecurity and 200,000 (or 40,000 families) in extremely food emergency. With the persistence of El Niño, and if nothing is done by July 2016, food insecurity could affect about 5 million people (half of the Haitian population). In addition, for the 5 departments affected by drought, it is expected about 76,000 children suffering from acute malnutrition, including 37,500 with severe acute malnutrition. A situation that could worsen if the necessary measures are not taken in the short and long term. In response to this alarming situation, the CNSA has drawn up an emergency response plan for the fight against hunger and save the crop of spring 2016. An amount of 2 billion gourdes is necessary to meet the urgent needs among others of 40,000 families living in the 20 communes in situations of acute food insecurity and ensure the nutritional management of target groups in the affected areas. For its part, based on its new studies, WFP will intensify its emergency operation to meet the immediate needs of 1 million people in a situation of severe food insecurity by making money transfers as well as distributing food rations. These immediate distributions will be complemented by programs of "Money for Work", where 200,000 people will receive money in exchange for their work on water management projects or soil conservation set up to promote the development at long term. WFP has already implemented of projects "Working against money" for more than 30,000 people in the areas most affected by drought.
20.10.2026

USA - High-Yield Cotton Farms Win Big in New Insurance Policy Shift

Growers can finally combine supplemental coverage with farm programs without losing protection that fits their operation. Meanwhile, federal officials are developing trade incentives for four countries that could expand demand for American cotton.

20.10.2026

India - Sanjay Lalla to head EASE project for PSU general insurers

The proposed EASE framework could provide a common reform roadmap for public sector general insurers, with a focus on improving productivity, strengthening governance, modernising technology platforms and enhancing customer service. Its effectiveness, however, will depend on how quickly the recommendations are translated into measurable operational and financial improvements.

20.10.2026

Czechia to subsidize crop insurance for large farms from 2027

The Czech  government has approved a new program: from January 2027, state  insurance support will extend to large agricultural businesses as well. Small and medium-sized  farms already receive such payments. 

20.10.2026

Kenya - Trans Nzoia maize farmers count losses after massive crop failure

CS Kagwe said in August that the country expects a shortfall of about 25 million 90kg bags against annual consumption of roughly 75m bags.

20.10.2026

Tomato growers in Moldova struggle to sell harvests despite high yields

Vegetable growers in Moldova are struggling to sell their harvests despite high yields, with some leaving crops unharvested or selling directly from fields due to limited market access and import competition.

20.10.2026

Tanzanian growers receive fertilizer training to boost avocado yields

The Tanzania Fertiliser Regulatory Authority (TFRA) is providing avocado growers in Busokelo District, Mbeya Region, with training on fertilizer selection and application to improve yields, fruit quality, and access to domestic and export markets.

18.10.2026

Chilean orchards assess crop damage following severe rain and hail

El Niño continues to dampen industry projections across South America. Earlier this week, severe rain and hail hit south-central Chile, where the Andean country concentrates most of its fruit production. 

18.10.2026

India - Women Farmers Encouraged To Adopt Natural Farming In Indore

He said the government was implementing schemes to make women self-reliant and independent, including 'Lakhpati Didi', 'Namo Drone Didi' and 'Krishi Sakhis' (agricultural companions) under the National Mission on Natural Farming. He said women were excelling in every field and bringing honour to the nation and state.