World Food Program warns of severe hunger in Cameroon without more funding

YAOUNDE, Cameroon The World Food Program (WFP) has issued a stark warning that parts of Cameroon could face a humanitarian disaster unless a funding goal of $67 million is secured. Speaking in Yaound, WFP representative Gianluca Ferrera emphasized that gains made in combating hunger may be undone if financial support falls short.

If this funding is not provided, many of the initiatives that WFP and its partners have been carrying out will have to stop, exposing vulnerable communities to serious risks, Ferrera stated.

Cameroon is currently experiencing one of the most overlooked displacement crises globally, as highlighted by the Norwegian Refugee Council. The country is grappling with multiple emergencies, including the Boko Haram insurgency in the north, a separatist conflict in the English-speaking regions, and an influx of refugees from the Central African Republic. These crises, along with climate-related shocks, have intensified displacement and heightened food insecurity.

According to WFP data, over 3.3 million Cameroonians need humanitarian aid, and more than 2 million are internally displaced. Ferrera warned that starting in January, more than 52,000 children will miss school meals due to funding shortages. In addition, the WFP may be forced to reduce its operations, potentially closing five offices in Cameroon, which would jeopardize food and nutrition support for over 500,000 people.

Without immediate assistance, we risk moving backwards instead of progressing, Ferrera noted.

In 2022, Cameroon received $106 million in WFP funding. This year, however, the amount has dropped sharply to just $20 million. The decline in support follows reductions in U.S. foreign aid in recent years, which had previously contributed significantly to humanitarian efforts in the country.

Author: Benjamin Carter