Hunger Hotspots – FAO-WFP Early Warnings on Acute Food Insecurity

May 30, 2023

A recent United Nations report has shed light on the alarming situation of hunger hotspots and increasing acute food insecurity in various parts of the world. The report, titled “Hunger Hotspots – FAO-WFP early warnings on acute food insecurity,” issued by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP), provides crucial insights into the challenges faced by low- and middle-income nations. Let’s delve into the key findings of the report.

Hunger Hotspots and Risk of Worsening

According to the UN report, countries such as Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Myanmar are among the identified hunger hotspots. These regions are facing critical levels of acute food insecurity, necessitating urgent humanitarian action. The report highlights the risk of worsening conditions from June to November 2023, stressing the need for immediate intervention.

Increased Food Insecurity

The FAO and WFP identify 18 areas in 22 countries that may experience heightened food insecurity. Deepening economic shocks, combined with the potential impact of the El Niño climatic phenomenon, contribute to the growing crisis. The report emphasizes the urgent need to address these vulnerabilities and prevent further deterioration.

Countries at Highest Concern Levels

Afghanistan, Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, and Yemen are flagged as countries with the highest concern levels for acute food insecurity. These regions already face critical food insecurity, and additional aggravating factors exacerbate the situation. The report further elevates Haiti, the Sahel (Burkina Faso and Mali), and Sudan to the highest concern levels due to their vulnerable conditions.

Hotspots with Very High Concern

Several countries, including Pakistan, Central African Republic, Ethiopia, Kenya, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Syrian Arab Republic, and Myanmar, are identified as hotspots with very high concern for food insecurity. These areas have large populations facing critical acute food insecurity, compounded by worsening drivers.

New Additions and Spillover Effects

The report has included Lebanon, El Salvador, and Nicaragua to the list of hunger hotspot countries since September 2022. Additionally, the crisis in Sudan is causing significant spillover effects, impacting neighboring countries. Massive population displacement and hunger are observed among people forced to flee and those hosting them.