AGS NEWS – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has announced plans to assist eight countries in West and Central Africa with crucial food and nutrition support.

The initiative, detailed in a statement on the WFP website, targets Nigeria, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, and Niger.

The programme aims to support 7.3 million people during the June-August lean season, when food stocks are low, and hunger is at its peak.

If additional funding is secured, the reach could extend to 12 million people. Despite the high need, WFP faces funding shortages that may limit the assistance provided.

The WFP highlighted that nearly 55 million people in the region are projected to face acute hunger during this period, a significant increase from 12.6 million in 2019.

17 million children under five are estimated to be acutely malnourished.

Chris Nikoi, WFP’s Regional Director for Western Africa, emphasized the urgent need for both emergency responses and sustainable solutions to address the crisis.

He pointed out that the hunger and nutrition issues are exacerbated by conflicts, high food prices, and climate impacts.

Economic challenges, such as high inflation and market disruptions, have further strained the affected populations.

Nikoi stressed the importance of investing in long-term solutions to improve food security, agricultural productivity, and economic resilience.

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He also noted that funding has not kept pace with the increasing humanitarian needs, leaving many without essential support.

The forecast for 2024 suggests challenging conditions ahead, with potential dry spells and floods threatening to worsen the situation.

The WFP’s efforts aim to provide immediate relief to those most at risk, including refugees, displaced people, and those in severely food-insecure areas.

However, without increased funding, millions could remain vulnerable to severe hunger.