Food insecurity affects 43% of the English-speaking Caribbean population, which translates to approximately 3 million people, according to CARICOM’s 2024 regional survey across 22 territories. While this represents a 17% improvement since May 2023, food insecurity levels remain 78% higher than pre-pandemic baselines.
The data reveals concerning household coping mechanisms: 96% report higher food prices, 70% respondents are depleting savings to purchase food, and 32% experienced job loss or reduced income. Natural hazards impacted 39% of respondents, primarily through heatwaves and drought conditions.
Income inequality drives food access challenges, with 77% of lower-income households facing food insecurity compared to just 6% among higher-income groups. Among countries with substantial survey responses, Eastern Caribbean states show mixed results: Saint Lucia (46%) and St. Vincent & Grenadines (45%) report above-average insecurity, while Trinidad & Tobago (42%) fares better despite persistent challenges.
These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions addressing both agricultural production and distribution systems to ensure food security gains reach all population segments across the region.
Source: Caribbean Food Security & Livelihoods Survey, CARICOM/WFP, April 2024