Smallholder farmers in drought-prone regions face repeated crop failures, livestock losses and declining incomes, often forcing families to sell essential assets to survive. In Nepal, Malawi, Pakistan and Ethiopia, drought insurance is helping change this reality. By combining effective forecasting with early action and timely pay-outs, farmers receive support before the worst impacts hit. The initiative reduces long-term vulnerability by enabling rapid access to finance and recovery assistance, helping communities maintain basic services and recover quickly. In February 2025, smallholder farmers in Malawi received over £80,000 in pay-outs, which was used to purchase seeds and vines, strengthening food security. In May 2025, the highest threshold was triggered in Pakistan, releasing £276,500 in support, helping communities secure food and supplies before the worst of the drought’s impact hit.
Tearfund works to prevent and respond to disasters by reducing risks and getting support quickly to those in need.
People protected across 3 years
Peril covered
Maximum pay-out across 3 years
Photo credit: Nepal, Tearfund