Malawi will require about MK124.3 billion worth of food assistance to support 2.6 million people expected to face food shortages during the 2026/2027 lean season, according to the latest Malawi Vulnerability Assessment Committee (MVAC) report.
The assessment, conducted between May and June 2026 by the Ministry of Finance, Economic Planning and Decentralisation through MVAC, shows that the affected population represents 14 percent of the country’s projected population and will require food support for between three and four months, from October to March.
Government estimates that 97,887 metric tonnes of food will be needed to meet the needs of vulnerable households during the lean period, with officials appealing to development partners and the private sector to help bridge the gap.
Although the number of food-insecure people has dropped by 35 percent from more than 4 million recorded in 2025, the report shows that millions of Malawians remain unable to produce or afford enough food to meet their annual requirements.
The assessment attributes the improvement to favourable weather conditions during the 2025/26 farming season, which resulted in increased agricultural production across the country.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, maize production rose by 15 percent, from 2.86 million metric tonnes in the 2024/25 season to 3.3 million metric tonnes in the 2025/26 season, helping reduce the number of households facing severe food shortages.
Despite the improved harvest, Government says it has already started planning interventions for vulnerable households while calling on cooperating partners and the local private sector to complement its efforts.
Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Decentralisation Joseph Mathyola Mwanamvekha said Government appreciates the contribution of all stakeholders in responding to food insecurity and urged continued support to ensure vulnerable families receive the assistance they need during the lean season.
