The UN World Food Programme (WFP) has warned that critical shortfalls in global humanitarian funding are threatening the lives of millions of Sudanese refugees fleeing war to seek refuge in neighbouring countries. As the situation stands, WFP may be forced to make drastic cuts to life-saving food assistance, potentially grinding to a halt in countries such as the Central African Republic, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Libya.
Dire Situation for Refugees
The situation for many Sudanese refugees is already dire, with over two years passing since war erupted between Sudan’s national army and paramilitary rebels. Refugees are struggling to survive, with some living on less than 500 calories a day – less than a quarter of daily nutritional needs. In Uganda, new arrivals are straining refugee support systems, exacerbating an already dire situation.
Impact on Vulnerable Populations
Children are particularly vulnerable to sustained periods of hunger and malnutrition. Malnutrition rates among young refugees in reception centers in Uganda and South Sudan have already breached emergency thresholds. Without urgent funding, WFP fears millions of vulnerable families, especially children, will be at increasingly severe risk of hunger and malnutrition.
Global Response
The WFP is not just focusing on Sudan; it has highlighted that 58 million people are at risk of extreme hunger or starvation globally unless urgent funding for food aid arrives. The organization is experiencing a steep decline in funding, with a 40% drop in funding for 2025 compared to last year. This has severe repercussions for its food aid efforts globally, particularly emergency feeding programs that support the most vulnerable.
Call to Action
WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain emphasizes the need for immediate support to avert catastrophe. “If we don’t receive the support we need to avert further catastrophe, the world will undoubtedly see more conflict, more unrest, and more hunger.” The WFP relies entirely on voluntary contributions, and every donation counts in saving lives and alleviating human suffering.
