Somalia Faces Worsening Hunger Crisis as Aid Funding Falls

Somalia Faces Another Severe Hunger Crisis as WFP Warns of Funding Shortfall

Somalia is facing a worsening humanitarian crisis as drought, conflict, displacement and reduced humanitarian funding put millions of people at risk of hunger.

The World Food Programme says about six million people in Somalia are facing acute hunger or worse, while approximately 1.9 million children under five are suffering acute malnutrition.

The situation has been made more difficult by prolonged dry conditions and continuing insecurity.

Humanitarian organisations are also facing major funding challenges, limiting their ability to reach vulnerable families.

WFP has warned that the country cannot afford to wait until the situation reaches famine conditions before the international community responds.

For families already affected by displacement and poverty, food shortages can quickly become a health and survival crisis, particularly for young children.

The current situation is a reminder that humanitarian emergencies often develop gradually before becoming international headlines.

Aid agencies are appealing for additional resources to provide food, nutrition and other essential assistance to communities facing the worst conditions.

Source: World Food Programme and UN reporting.