Key facts
- Conflicts and energy shocks are driving up food inflation and threatening global hunger progress.
- Millions more people could face hunger if current disruptions persist.
- The cost of a healthy diet has increased significantly globally.
- Climate change is exacerbating disruptions to agriculture.
- Africa is projected to be the region with the largest number of hungry people by 2030.
Conflicts and disruptions in global energy markets are exacerbating food inflation and threatening progress against hunger, according to a United Nations report. IFAD President Alvaro Lario warned that persistent shocks could push millions more people into hunger, particularly in Africa, which is expected to bear the largest burden.
The UN food security report indicated that while global hunger has seen a modest decrease, over 500 million people may still face chronic hunger by 2030. Lario highlighted that ongoing conflicts, such as the Iran war and the invasion of Ukraine, are key drivers of increased energy and fertilizer prices, impacting food systems worldwide. Small-scale farmers are especially vulnerable due to their reliance on diesel for operations.
The cost of a healthy diet has risen globally, with Latin America and the Caribbean facing the highest expenses. Post-farmgate activities like processing and logistics also contribute significantly to costs and are susceptible to conflict-driven supply chain disruptions. Investments in infrastructure, research, and cold chains are deemed necessary to reduce these costs.
Lario emphasized the cyclical relationship between hunger and conflict, stating that ending hunger and making healthy diets affordable requires political commitment, sustained investment, and enabling policies. Recent crises, including natural disasters and conflicts, have underscored the need for more resilient agrifood systems.
Affordability remains a major challenge, with about 77% of people in low-income countries unable to afford a healthy diet. Climate change, through floods, droughts, and extreme heat, is further pressuring food systems and rural livelihoods. The report advocates for a focus on resilience and adaptation before disasters strike.
Africa is identified as the epicenter of the global food security challenge. The continent imports nearly $100 billion worth of food annually, highlighting the need for stronger local production, storage, and distribution networks. Lario called for greater investment in agriculture and food systems to address these issues.