The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has issued a stark warning, stating that it will only be able to meet approximately one-third of the projected global food needs in 2026 due to a critical lack of funding. This shortfall threatens to leave millions facing severe hunger and potential famine.
According to the WFP’s global projections for 2026, an estimated 318 million people will face acute hunger or worse. This figure is more than double the number recorded in 2019, highlighting the rapidly escalating global food crisis. The agency attributes this alarming situation to several factors, including ongoing conflicts, extreme weather events, and economic instability.
The WFP states that declining international humanitarian funding will force it to concentrate its food assistance on only a fraction of those in need. The agency estimates that it will only be able to reach around 110 million people, at a cost of approximately $13 billion. However, current funding projections indicate that the WFP may receive only half of this required amount.
WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain expressed grave concern about the situation, stating that the world is facing multiple and concurrent famines in regions like Gaza and Sudan. She emphasized that such a situation is unacceptable in the 21st century and requires urgent attention and increased global support.
Last week, the WFP and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) jointly warned that millions worldwide are at risk of famine or facing conditions that could lead to it. The agencies highlighted that 16 regions are experiencing severe food insecurity, further exacerbating the crisis. Both agencies emphasized that humanitarian aid funding is facing critical shortages, hindering their ability to respond effectively to the growing needs.
McCain added that the global food crisis shows no signs of abating in 2026, with conflict, extreme weather, and economic instability expected to contribute to another year of acute food insecurity. The WFP is urging international donors and governments to increase their contributions to avert a catastrophe and provide life-saving assistance to those most vulnerable.
DZWatch will continue to monitor this developing situation and provide updates as they become available. The implications of this funding shortfall are far-reaching, and the need for immediate action is critical.
