WFP targets 7.3mn for nutrition assistance in West & Central Africa

The United Nations World Food Programme has identified a pressing issue in West and Central Africa, where economic shocks have led to market disruptions, high inflation, weakened economic activities, depreciating national currencies, and increased costs of fuel and agricultural inputs. These challenges have significantly impacted countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Sierra Leone, leaving approximately 55 million people in need of food assistance with critical levels of food insecurity. To address this issue, the World Food Programme is targeting 7.3 million people for its Lifesaving Nutrition Assistance Programme during the June to August lean season, which is the peak of hunger in the regions. David Stevenson, the Nigeria Country Director for the World Food Programme, highlighted the severity of the situation in West Africa, particularly in Nigeria, Ghana, and Sierra Leone. He emphasized the impact of food inflation, which has reached unprecedented levels since the last harvest, with prices spiking 2, 3, or even 400% for staple commodities relied upon by low-income consumers. This surge in prices has made it challenging for people to access essential food items, further exacerbating the food insecurity in the region. Stevenson explained that the lean season is a critical period when food stocks are depleted, and household supplies are limited, heightening the urgency to address nutrition assistance. The World Food Programme is ramping up its operations to meet the escalating needs during this lean season, particularly focusing on regions like the northeast and northwest of Nigeria, where conflict-related issues have compounded the food insecurity crisis. By scaling up operations, the WFP aims to reach 7.5 million people across West Africa, provided it receives the necessary resources to support these efforts. In addition to economic challenges, the region also grapples with the impacts of climate change, including droughts, floods, and storms. The shift in weather patterns poses a threat to agriculture and food production, requiring initiatives to enhance resilience and mitigate the effects of climate change. Stevenson stressed the importance of implementing innovative technologies, such as drought-resistant seeds and irrigation systems, to improve agricultural productivity and address food insecurity in the face of changing climatic conditions. Despite the funding constraints and global financial pressures, Stevenson highlighted the imperative of continued support from both national governments and the international community to combat hunger and malnutrition effectively. He underscored the cost of inaction in addressing food insecurity, emphasizing the economic dividends of investing in nutrition and food security. By prioritizing nutrition assistance and sustainable agriculture practices, countries can unlock the full potential of their populations and drive economic development in the region. Stevenson also drew attention to the alarming rise in malnutrition rates, particularly in areas facing acute food insecurity. He highlighted the northwest region of Nigeria as a concerning hotspot where malnutrition levels are surging due to conflict and limited access to agricultural resources. By harnessing the agricultural potential of regions like the northwest through strategic interventions and investment in farming infrastructure, there is a tangible opportunity to combat malnutrition and enhance food security. As the World Food Programme continues its efforts to address the complex challenge of food insecurity in West and Central Africa, the collaboration between governments, organizations, and communities remains essential to build sustainable food systems and ensure access to nutritious food for all populations in the region.