WFP Issues Dire Hunger Warning for Cameroon as Funding Dries Up

The World Food Program warns catastrophic hunger is imminent in Cameroon. The UN agency says it needs $67 million immediately. Without it, vital aid will stop in early 2025.This crisis threatens to reverse years of progress. Millions of displaced people are at severe risk. The warning was issued by WFP officials in the capital, Yaoundé.

Funding Shortfall Halts School Meals and Closes Offices

WFP representative Gianluca Ferrera outlined the grim consequences. Over 52,000 children will lose school meals in January. The agency may also shut down five of its offices in Cameroon.This scale-down puts over half a million people in danger. They risk losing all food and nutrition assistance. According to the WFP, over 3.3 million people in Cameroon need humanitarian help.More than 2 million are internally displaced. The Norwegian Refugee Council calls it the world’s most neglected displacement crisis. Funding has dropped sharply from $106 million in 2022 to just $20 million this year.

A Perfect Storm of Conflict and Climate Shocks

Multiple crises are converging to drive hunger. A Boko Haram insurgency affects the north. A separatist conflict grips English-speaking regions.The east struggles with refugees from the Central African Republic. Erratic climate patterns further destroy crops and livelihoods. This combination creates an overwhelming humanitarian emergency.The funding crisis follows shifts in U.S. foreign aid policy. Previous USAID programs were credited with saving millions of lives globally. Current shortages now put those gains at risk in Cameroon.

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The situation in Cameroon is reaching a breaking point. The international community must act to prevent a catastrophic hunger crisis. Failure to fund the WFP’s appeal will have devastating human costs.

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How much funding does the WFP need for Cameroon?

The World Food Program requires at least $67 million. This urgent funding is needed to continue its life-saving operations through 2025.

Who is most affected by this funding shortfall?

Over half a million people risk losing food aid. Specifically, more than 52,000 children will stop receiving critical school meals starting in January.

What is causing the hunger crisis in Cameroon?

Three major conflicts and climate shocks are the main drivers. The Boko Haram insurgency, a separatist uprising, and a refugee influx have displaced millions and ruined livelihoods.

How has U.S. foreign aid policy impacted this?

Recent withdrawals of U.S. foreign aid have contributed to global shortfalls. USAID, whose programs have historically prevented mass deaths, has faced significant budget reductions.