The World Food Programme (WFP) and UNICEF launched a partnership to fight wasting, a severe form of malnutrition, in 15 crisis-hit countries. The goal is prevention, early detection, and treatment. This collaboration aims to maximize resources and reach the most vulnerable. Cindy McCain, WFP chief, called the effort urgent and life-saving.
More than 3 million mothers and children face malnutrition in South Sudan this year. One in four people is now at risk. The region suffers from flooding, conflict, and rising food prices, with malnutrition rates spiking. These factors have turned South Sudan into a global flashpoint for child wasting.
DEADLIEST FORM OF MALNUTRITION: WASTING
Wasting occurs when a child is underweight for their height. It’s the deadliest form of malnutrition. Without treatment, it can kill quickly. Around 45 million children under five suffer from wasting worldwide. Of those, 33 million live in just 15 high-risk countries.
SOUTH SUDAN: NUTRITION EFFORTS ON THE GROUND
Aachal Chand of WFP says their work in South Sudan has real impact. Nutrition programs supply food and promote hygiene education. Gatdoor took Tuach to a WFP clinic where he received treatment. He now eats a high-protein peanut paste. Hygiene lessons also help keep the family healthy.
PREVENTING A GENERATION LOST TO HUNGER
Malnourished children who survive face developmental delays and reduced productivity. That creates long-term damage for nations. Preventing malnutrition is more effective than treating it after onset. WFP and UNICEF want to break that cycle.
ETHIOPIA’S HUNGER CRISIS DEEPENS
In Ethiopia, millions face severe food insecurity. Conflict has displaced many like Desta, a mother of two in Tigray. Her 8-month-old daughter, Capital, suffers from moderate malnutrition. WFP helps with nutrition support, but funds fall short. More than 4 million women and children are at risk in Ethiopia alone.
FUNDING GAPS RISK MORE LIVES
Without more funding, WFP may halt aid to Ethiopia by June. Michele Quintaglie from WFP says the organization can deliver aid efficiently, but money is lacking. Urgent funding is essential to continue life-saving programs.
SAVING LIVES IN THE CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC
In CAR, 18-month-old Essaie fell ill with malaria and malnutrition. His widowed father brought him to a WFP-supported clinic. There, he got food, hygiene advice, and medical follow-ups. Clinics report drops in severe acute malnutrition due to these interventions.
A CALL FOR GLOBAL SUPPORT AND ACTION
These efforts prove that targeted support saves lives. Preventing and treating child wasting is possible with the right resources. The new WFP-UNICEF alliance represents a unified approach to hunger. With global support, they aim to stop child malnutrition before it becomes fatal.