UN Warns of Severe Hunger Crisis in West and Central Africa

Violence, political instability, and climate change drive food insecurity, with nearly 50 million people at risk.

Nearly 50 million people in West and Central Africa could face food insecurity next year, with more than 2.5 million on the brink of starvation, primarily due to increasing violence in the region.
Climate change, severe floods, droughts, and inflation are also contributing factors to the escalating humanitarian crisis.
Political turmoil, including five coups in three years in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, has led to increased jihadi attacks and blockades, exacerbating the food insecurity.
Sanctions imposed by the West African regional bloc following the military takeover in Niger have made it harder for assistance to enter the country, while soaring food costs have made it difficult for people to buy food, even when available.
The UN has launched a $7.6 billion appeal to support more than 32 million people in dire need, warning that support from the international community is not keeping pace with the needs.