The cholera epidemic in Sierra Leone is the worst in at least 15 years, affecting 12 of 13 districts. Western Area, Port Loko, and Kambia are worst affected. Despite seasonal rains, the number of people infected with cholera will likely decrease from the approximately 15,834 cases reported in early September, due to divers assistance provided by local partners. Though urgent medical and behavior changing support is needed to save lives, the cholera epidemic has not yet significantly impacted food security. (September 2012)
The lean season ended in late August and had less of an impact on household food consumption than usual due to favorable harvests in 2011/12. Given the good availability of basic food and income-generating opportunities, household food insecurity is expected to remain at minimal levels through the next harvest starting in September. (September 2012)
Crops are developing well due to good rainfall since July. Cumulative rainfall levels since the beginning of the season have been above-normal to normal across the country. Currently, major farm activities in Sierra Leone include the harvesting of upland rice, sweet potatoes, groundnuts, and vegetables. In some areas, such as Bombali and Kabala, tobacco is also being harvested, and in the Kambia area, palm oil is being produced. The harvest of other crops, such as cassava and yams, will begin in October. (September 2012)
The current upland rice and sweet potato harvests are improving poor households' access to food staples and are reducing the need for market purchases. Imported rice supplies remain good, and prices are expected to be accessible through at least the next harvests, which occur from September to January. (July 2012)
Household food stocks are beginning to replenish. Poor households are earning normal income levels from petty-trade, the selling of farm products (ex. vegetables and cash crops, such as tobacco and palm oil), the selling of forest products, local labor, mining activities, and other income-generating activities. (August 2012)
At this stage of the cropping season, forecasts are predicting good harvests this year. Given the good availability of basic foods and ongoing normal livelihood activities, household are expected to be food secure through next June. (September 2012)