El Niño Threatens Maize Production and Food Security in Eswatini 2026/27

A food-security assessment warns that rainfall risks during Eswatini’s 2026/27 farming season could weaken maize harvests and put pressure on food prices and agricultural jobs.

A food-security assessment warns that Eswatini could face weaker maize harvests, higher food costs and fewer agricultural jobs during the 2026/27 season. The IPC analysis projects normal to below-normal rainfall, extended dry spells and higher temperatures, with particular risks for the dry middleveld, lowveld cattle and maize zone, and Lubombo Plateau.

The assessment points to a maize deficit that must be met through imports. Although cross-border trade is expected to continue, transport costs and exchange-rate changes could add pressure to prices.

Its proposed responses include targeted food assistance, affordable inputs and drought-tolerant seed, with longer-term investment in irrigation and grain storage.