10 African countries where food prices expected to rise in 2026

2026-02-26 - 17:07

The latest projections from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), analyzed by Visual Capitalist, show sharp contrasts in expected food inflation across 160 countries in 2026 — with African economies dominating both the highest increases and the steepest declines. While some advanced economies are forecast to see moderating or declining food prices, inflationary pressures remain concentrated in emerging and import-dependent markets, particularly across Africa. The report ranks countries by projected year-over-year food price changes, highlighting where households are likely to face the greatest cost pressures. 10 African countries projected to record the highest food inflation in 2026 1. Nigeria — 17.1% Nigeria is projected to top the list, driven by import dependence, currency pressures, and supply chain challenges affecting domestic food availability. 2. Angola — 14.8% Angola follows closely, with food prices expected to rise sharply amid exchange rate volatility and heavy reliance on imports. 3. Zambia — 10.8% Elevated input costs and currency weakness are projected to sustain double-digit food inflation. 4. Ethiopia — 10.1% Ongoing macroeconomic adjustments and domestic supply constraints are expected to keep food prices elevated. 5. Burundi — 8.8% Structural agricultural limitations and economic fragility continue to weigh on food affordability. 6. Cabo Verde — 7.2% As an island economy heavily reliant on imported food, Cabo Verde remains vulnerable to global price shocks. 7. Cameroon — 7.0% Supply bottlenecks and currency-related pressures are expected to drive continued increases. 8. Kenya — 6.8% Weather variability and exchange rate movements are likely to influence food price trends. 9. Somalia — 6.7% Import dependence and persistent supply vulnerabilities are projected to keep food inflation elevated. 10. Tanzania — 6.7% Currency pressures and domestic supply dynamics are expected to shape food price movements.\ Vanguard News