Key facts
- The World Food Programme (WFP) received an $800 million donation from the United States.
- The funds will aid over 38 million vulnerable people in at least 37 countries.
- UN food agencies warn of worsening acute hunger in 13 global hotspots by November 2026.
- Conflict, funding cuts, and climate shocks are driving increased food insecurity.
- Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen, and Palestine are identified as areas of greatest concern.
The World Food Programme (WFP) has announced it welcomed an $800 million (€695 million) contribution from the United States, a move described as critical amid escalating global hunger. The UN food aid agency stated the funds will support life-saving operations for over 38 million vulnerable individuals across at least 37 countries.
The WFP, which has faced significant funding cuts, aims to assist 110 million people this year but requires $13 billion. Contributions dropped from $10 billion in 2024 to $6 billion in the previous year, exacerbated by logistical challenges and increased costs due to conflicts like the one in Iran.
Concurrently, the WFP and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) released a joint report warning that acute hunger is projected to worsen in 13 global hotspots between June and November 2026. Around 266 million people are already experiencing high levels of food insecurity. The report highlights Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen, and Palestine as areas of greatest concern, with Nigeria and Somalia newly added to the list due to deteriorating conditions and rising famine risks.
Conflict and violence are identified as primary drivers of hunger in these regions, compounded by economic shocks, reduced humanitarian funding, and the anticipated effects of El Niño, which could lead to droughts and floods.