SADC faces deeper El Niño food-security threat as neighbours lack grain buffers

El Niño threatens to worsen food insecurity in Southern Africa, as neighboring countries struggle with insufficient grain supplies amidst looming drought conditions. Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Namibia are already importing South African grain, indicating domestic supplies are inadequate. Agbiz chief economist Wandile Sihlobo warned that regional grain demand could intensify in 2027 if the next harvest disappoints.