Background
Since the outbreak of civil war in September 2002, the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire has continued to endure severe economic, humanitarian and social consequences. Following the cessation of hostilities through the signing of the Ouagadougou Peace Agreement in March 2007, the political landscape has evolved. However, there are still serious concerns about the Government’s roadmap for the implementation of the accords.
The redeployment of Government officials has been inadequate while social services remain heavily overstretched. Vulnerable population groups have suffered a decline in living conditions owing to rising inflation coupled with price increases for staple food items. Social unrest has increased, especially in urban areas, where the elevated cost of living has prompted protests from a wide range of different groups. Supporting the sustainable resettlement of displaced and highly vulnerable persons continues to be a priority, particularly in the volatile west and north of the country.
Challenges facing food security and livelihoods
Despite Government attempts to diversify the economy, Côte d’Ivoire remains heavily dependent on agriculture, engaging roughly 68 percent of the population. A joint FAO/WFP assessment indicated that 44 percent of the population lives below the poverty line, while 29 percent of households are food insecure. Conflict has reduced access to land, causing a decline in agricultural production. Escalating international costs for agricultural commodities has led to a rise in prices for rice, wheat palm oil and milk, thereby diminishing the purchasing power of households. Access to quality seed, tools and fertilizer is limited, greatly inhibiting farming activities. As a result, income generation in the north and west of the country is insufficient to ensure a diversified diet to a large segment of the population.
In the north of the country, the crisis in the cotton trade has eroded the livelihoods of 100 000 households, while the plummeting market value of cashew nuts has affected 60 000 households. The resurgence of animal diseases (trypanosomiasis and anthrax), together with the persistence of infestation rates, threaten the development of livestock. Furthermore, climatic hazards and poor yields persist in jeopardizing farmers’ livelihoods. In addition, approximately 10 percent of children under age-five are malnourished.
FAO response
FAO is seeking US$3 569 390 for emergency and rehabilitation assistance in Côte d’Ivoire in 2008. The main objective of FAO’s activities in Côte d’Ivoire will focus on reinforcing food security and nutrition as well as restoring basic livelihoods for the most vulnerable populations. FAO’s proposals seek to assist groups with special vulnerabilities, such as households without access to land, returnees, displaced persons, as well as households affected by HIV/AIDS. Proposed projects include the distribution of agricultural inputs, training in nutrition, improved farming and livestock breeding practices, and support to marketing and income-generating activities. Technical support to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock will be provided to ensure the coordination of emergency agricultural activities, food security and early warning and control systems.
