Much of Lesotho’s population is dependent on subsistence agriculture to meet their basic needs, and the country is susceptible to recurrent climatic shocks, such as drought and flooding, that have limited agricultural production and contributed to food insecurity. El Niño-induced drought conditions and high temperatures undermined food security in Lesotho in 2024, generating high levels of humanitarian needs among approximately half of Lesotho’s population of 2.2 million people. Economic shocks—including high inflation and unemployment, as well as a lack of agricultural and other casual labor opportunities—continue to compound the effects of ongoing food insecurity, contributing to diminished household incomes and purchasing power.
On August 7, 2024, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., Greg Morrison issued a declaration of humanitarian need for drought-induced food insecurity in Lesotho. In response, USAID continues to coordinate closely with humanitarian actors to evaluate the scope of humanitarian need and will prioritize food assistance to the most vulnerable populations across Lesotho.
