Africa is facing an acute hunger crisis with more than 307 million people (more than a fifth of the population) experiencing chronic malnutrition in 2024, projected to account for 60% of the world’s hungry by 2030. Conflict, extreme climates and economic crises are driving a record 167 million people into acute hunger by 2025, particularly in the Horn of Africa.
Here are the key points regarding the hunger crisis in Africa:
Crisis & Mortality Epicenter: The Horn of Africa (Somalia, Ethiopia, Sudan) is the worst-affected region. Approximately 130,000 people are in a catastrophic situation or on the verge of death.
Projections & Statistics: 167 million people in Africa will face acute food insecurity by 2025, marking the sixth consecutive year of increase.
Main Causes: Famine driven by armed conflict, extreme drought (the worst in 40 years), and economic shocks.
Impact on Children: Approximately 11.9 million children under five in the Horn of Africa are at risk of acute malnutrition.
Environmental Conditions: Repeated droughts have destroyed crops and livestock, exacerbating food insecurity.
The crisis has been described as preventable but persists due to a combination of regional vulnerability and lack of access to aid, with high death rates from famine-related diseases.