In Focus: Malawians fear for future as lack of maize threatens survival

IBTimes UK travelled to Malawi to witness the impact of a drought that has put millions at risk of hunger.

IBTimes UK travelled to Malawi to witness the impact of a drought that has put millions of people at risk of hunger. People in the Neno district, one of the worst impacted, speak on how they are surviving without maize, a staple food in the country.

At least 14 million people in Malawi and the surrounding nations, where people mostly rely on agricultural practices for their survival, have been impacted by a drought exacerbated by the El Nino phenomenon, caused by warm water in the Pacific Ocean.

Malawi drought factbox

Malawi is one of the worst affected by the drought.

Lack of rains have resulted in losses of crops making this year's harvest – which typically takes place in March and April – almost impossible for thousands of households in Malawi, where maize is a staple food.

At least 2.8 million people – 1.5 million children – are facing hunger and its effects on growth.

The World Food Programme (WFP) is delivering food to thousands of households until April and said Malawi needs $38m (£27m) to help those affected by food insecurity.

Analysts warned assistance to people who are facing hunger could be further undermined as donors have cut aid to Malawi following a 2013 financial scandal known as cashgate.