Hunger is getting worse in 13 crisis-affected regions, with immediate famine threats looming in Gaza, Sudan, South Sudan, Haiti, and Mali. This alarming situation was detailed in a new joint report released Monday by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP).
The Hunger Hotspots report highlights how ongoing conflict, economic instability, and climate-related disasters are pushing millions into extreme food insecurity. It warns that without urgent humanitarian action, the coming five months could see worsening hunger in areas already on the brink.
WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain called the situation a “red alert,” stating that the UN knows exactly where and who is at the highest risk. However, insecurity and lack of funding are making it difficult to reach those in need. “Without funding and access, we cannot save lives,” she said.
Famine is officially declared when 20% of a population faces extreme food shortages, 30% of children are acutely malnourished, and at least two out of every 10,000 people die daily due to starvation or disease.
In Sudan, where famine was confirmed in 2024, nearly 25 million people remain at risk, driven by ongoing conflict and massive displacement. South Sudan faces a similar threat, with up to 7.7 million in crisis and 63,000 living in famine-like conditions due to severe flooding and political instability.
The situation in Gaza is critical. Continued Israeli military operations and a strict blockade have left all 2.1 million residents in acute food insecurity. Nearly half a million people could fall into famine by September, the report says.
In Haiti, gang violence has displaced thousands, leaving at least 8,400 people in catastrophic hunger. Mali is also in trouble, with 2,600 people projected to face starvation by the end of August, due to conflict and surging grain prices.
Other high-risk countries include Yemen, Nigeria, Myanmar, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The UN emphasizes the need to support local agriculture to keep people producing food even in the worst conditions. FAO Director-General QU Dongyu noted, “Protecting people’s farms and animals isn’t just urgent, it’s essential.”
By Lucky Anyanje
