ROME – The United Nations has issued a stark warning as hunger deepens across 13 global hotspots, with countries like Gaza, Sudan, South Sudan, Haiti, and Mali facing the highest risk of famine. A joint report by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and World Food Programme (WFP) urges immediate humanitarian action.
The “Hunger Hotspots” report highlights conflict, economic instability, and climate disasters as key drivers behind the worsening food crisis. It forecasts that, without urgent support, several regions could experience famine within the next five months. Insecurity and a lack of funding are already blocking aid from reaching vulnerable communities.
“This report is a red alert,” said WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain. “We know exactly where hunger is rising and who is most at risk. But without funding and safe access, we cannot save lives.”
The situation in Gaza is especially dire. The report notes that ongoing military operations and blockades have left all 2.1 million residents food insecure, with nearly 500,000 at risk of famine by the end of September. Similarly, Sudan’s conflict has placed nearly 25 million people in danger, with famine already confirmed there in 2024.
South Sudan faces a deadly mix of floods and political instability, pushing 7.7 million people into crisis, including 63,000 in famine-like conditions. In Haiti, violent gangs have forced mass displacement, leaving 8,400 people on the brink of starvation. Mali’s unrest and rising food prices could result in 2,600 people facing famine by August.
Despite the alarming outlook, there are some positive signs. Countries like Ethiopia, Kenya, and Lebanon have shown enough improvement to be removed from the list. Still, the UN emphasized that protecting local agriculture is essential to prevent future catastrophes. “Supporting farmers and preserving food sources under harsh conditions is not just important—it’s critical,” said FAO Director-General QU Dongyu.