More than 258,000 people living in rural areas of Lesotho (17 percent of the population analysed) have been experiencing high levels of acute food insecurity, classified as IPC Phase 3 or above (Crisis or worse) between May and September 2025. These people require urgent action to reduce food gaps, protect and restore livelihoods, and prevent acute malnutrition.
Eight of the 10 districts analysed are, classified in IPC Phase 2 (Stressed), while the remaining three districts—Mafeteng, Maseru, and Mohale’s Hoek— are classified in IPC Phase 3 (Crisis). The onset of rains that started from in late October to November 2024 enabled the timely start of planting in the lowlands. However, the country experienced dry spells and high temperatures at the crucial growth stage of cropping between December 2024 and January 2025. Other drivers of acute food insecurity include livestock disease outbreaks, high food prices and reduced agricultural opportunities due to decreased areas planted. Food availability remains a minor limiting factor as food will be available from the markets. From November 2025, the poorer populations are expected to experience food gaps from November 2025.
During the projected period (October 2025 to March 2026), around 334,000 people (22 percent of the rural population analysed) are projected to face high levels of acute food insecurity Phase 3 or above. Nine of the 10 districts are expected to be classified in Phase 3 (Crisis. Only Leribe is likely to be in Phase 2 in the projection period. The main hazards projected During the projected period (October 2025 to March 2026), around 334,000 people (22 percent of the rural population analysed) are projected to face high levels of acute food insecurity Phase 3 or above. Nine of the 10 districts are expected to be classified in Phase 3 (Crisis. Only Leribe is likely to be in Phase 2 in the projection period.