WFP: 266 million people face acute food insecurity - Sarmad
New Executive Director of the World Food Programme warns of global food crisis
Translated by Qiyas from سرمد — Original source
The new Executive Director of the World Food Programme (WFP), David Beasley, warned that 266 million people worldwide are currently facing acute food insecurity, noting that conflicts are behind the suffering of about two-thirds of these individuals, while disruptions to global supply chains are exacerbating the crisis.
This statement came during a press conference held by Beasley at United Nations headquarters, his first since officially assuming his post a few days ago, during which he outlined the challenges facing the WFP’s operations and its priorities for the coming period.
Beasley stated that the WFP continues to deliver humanitarian aid despite growing challenges, highlighting that staff members are overcoming field obstacles and reaching hard-to-access areas, including through aerial drop operations.
He explained that WFP operations are currently focusing particularly on Sudan, South Sudan, and Somalia, given the dire humanitarian conditions in these three countries, reaffirming the ongoing efforts to alleviate the suffering of affected populations.
In this context, he announced that his first field visit in the coming weeks will be to Sudan, which is facing an extremely critical situation due to worsening acute hunger, to personally express his appreciation for the dedication and commitment of frontline workers.
He emphasized that the coming phase requires a focus on implementing humanitarian programs by protecting and empowering WFP staff, strengthening partnerships with donors to secure necessary funding for humanitarian projects, and continuously improving operational efficiency.
He pointed out that a key priority for the WFP is enhancing investments in disaster preparedness measures before disasters occur, alongside expanding school feeding programs, which he viewed as a significant global opportunity and a major area of interest for donors.
The UN official expressed his appreciation for frontline workers who continue to carry out their duties under extremely difficult conditions in some of the most challenging regions worldwide.
