Funding Crisis Threatens Food Aid in Congo

The U.N. World Food Programme is experiencing a critical funding shortage, risking the suspension of food aid to millions in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The organization has only received $150 million this year out of the $350 million needed to assist those facing severe malnutrition.

The U.N. World Food Programme is grappling with a severe funding shortfall, threatening its capacity to deliver essential food aid to millions of malnourished individuals in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. With current resources at a historically low level, the agency faces difficult decisions.

Cynthia Jones, the WFP's country director for the DRC, has revealed that the program has secured just $150 million this year. This amount is starkly insufficient against the $350 million required to meet the urgent needs of the population battling malnutrition and hunger.

Unless additional funds are secured imminently, the WFP may be forced to halt its life-saving food aid efforts by February, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region. The situation underscores the pressing need for increased financial support from the international community.

(With inputs from agencies.)