U.N. Food Agency Cuts Aid for 750,000 in Somalia Next Month
URGENT UPDATE: The U.N. World Food Program has just announced a drastic cut in food assistance for 750,000 people in Somalia, set to take effect next month. This decision comes as millions face the dire consequences of climate change and escalating hunger crises across the country.
Effective November, the number of individuals receiving emergency food aid will plummet from 1.1 million in August to just 350,000 due to severe funding shortages. “We are seeing a dangerous rise in emergency levels of hunger, and our ability to respond is shrinking by the day,” warned Ross Smith, the agency’s director of emergency preparedness and response. Without immediate financial support, vulnerable families will be left with no resources during this critical time.
The latest U.N. report reveals that 4.6 million people in Somalia are currently facing crisis levels of hunger. Alarmingly, 1.8 million children are projected to experience acute malnutrition this year, with 421,000 children suffering from severe malnutrition. The World Food Program has only managed to assist about 180,000 of these vulnerable children, leaving a significant gap in support.
Somalia is grappling with the dual challenges of devastating climate impacts—such as drought and flooding—and ongoing conflict that has destabilized the region for years. The militant group al-Shabab continues to control certain areas, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Furthermore, cuts in U.S. foreign aid have severely hampered the already strained response efforts of humanitarian agencies.
The World Food Program urgently requires $98 million to maintain minimal life-saving operations for 800,000 people through the upcoming lean season, which extends until March 2026. The situation demands immediate action—without funding, countless families will face starvation at a time when they are already on the brink.
As this crisis unfolds, officials stress the importance of raising awareness and mobilizing resources to prevent further loss of life. The world must respond swiftly to support those in dire need in Somalia. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
