Violence Driven Hunger
The United Nations issued a stark warning on Tuesday, cautioning that hunger is poised to surge across West and Central Africa next year. The main driver of this crisis is the escalating violence in the region, which has been plagued by conflicts. According to officials from the UN, the Food and Agriculture Organization, and other groups, nearly 50 million people could face food insecurity, with over 2.5 million on the brink of starvation. The findings were presented in Dakar, the capital of Senegal.
Impact of Conflict and Insecurity
The compiled report, which includes data from regional governments, the UN, and aid groups, identifies increasing violence as the primary cause of food insecurity. The Central Sahel, a vast expanse below the Sahara Desert, has been particularly hard-hit. Countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have experienced a series of coups, leading to a rise in jihadi attacks linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group. These militants have capitalized on the political turmoil, seizing land and blockading cities. Martin Naindouba Djerandodje, a regional expert for the FAO, highlighted the threat of insecurity as the most pressing concern. Without aid, the situation could worsen, potentially leading to loss of life.
The Epicenter of Crisis
The cross-border region between Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger has emerged as the epicenter of West Africa’s escalating humanitarian crisis. The area faces compounded challenges, including the effects of climate change, severe floods, and droughts. The UN has set its sights on providing assistance to over 10 million people in this region. However, the recent military takeover in Niger, accompanied by increased jihadi violence and economic sanctions, has hindered the delivery of aid. In Mali, the withdrawal of the UN peacekeeping mission and ongoing violence have made it difficult for relief efforts to reach certain cities. Similarly, in Burkina Faso, approximately 1 million people reside in hard-to-reach areas.
Rising Costs and Dwindling Funds
Even when food is available, soaring costs have made it virtually impossible for many to afford basic necessities. The lack of economic opportunities exacerbates the dire situation. The UN reports that it is unable to meet the overwhelming needs due to dwindling funds. This year, 40% of food-insecure individuals did not receive any aid, and those who did were provided with less than 50% of the required rations. In response, the UN launched a $7.6 billion appeal on Monday to support over 32 million people in urgent need across West and Central Africa. Martin Griffiths, the UN’s humanitarian chief, emphasized the dire consequences if more assistance is not provided in 2024, stating that lives will be at stake.
Source: The Associated Press