By Sama Marwan,
In a shocking move reflecting the growing financial crisis, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has announced the closure of its regional office in Southern Africa, specifically in Johannesburg, South Africa, due to a severe funding shortfall that threatens its humanitarian operations in the region.
Reasons for the Closure: Aid Cuts and Shrinking Funds
This decision follows significant cuts in humanitarian aid from the United States, WFP’s largest donor. Since the implementation of former President Donald Trump’s “America First” policy, international aid has seen a sharp decline, directly impacting WFP’s ability to continue its lifesaving operations in areas suffering from food shortages and extreme drought.
Operations Merging in Nairobi to Ensure Continued Support
As an alternative measure, WFP has decided to merge its operations in East and Southern Africa, managing them from its office in Nairobi, Kenya. This step aims to maintain the urgent delivery of food assistance to millions in need, especially as the region endures the worst drought in four decades.
A Hunger Crisis Threatening 26 Million People
Seven countries across Southern Africa are facing a severe food crisis, with 26 million people at risk of food insecurity due to prolonged droughts. The closure of the regional office raises serious concerns about potential delays in relief efforts and its impact on hunger prevention initiatives.
Warnings of Widespread Unrest
Economists and humanitarian experts warn that this move could lead to social unrest and rising malnutrition rates, especially in countries that heavily rely on UN aid. The lack of sufficient funding may force WFP to reduce the size of food rations provided to struggling families, worsening the humanitarian crisis.
WFP’s Message: Committed Despite Challenges
Despite these setbacks, WFP has reaffirmed its commitment to finding alternative solutions to sustain food aid distribution. The organization is calling for increased international support to prevent the worsening of the humanitarian crisis in Southern Africa.
🔴 Will WFP secure alternative funding to save millions from hunger, or will the crisis escalate further?
