Millions Face Starvation as Funding Shortages Cripple UN Hunger Relief in West Africa

Limited funding has caused the UN to suspend food aid to nearly half of the 11.6 million people targeted for assistance in West Africa, leaving many at risk of violence, abuse, and even death.
Conflict and high food prices have contributed to the worst hunger crisis in West Africa in over a decade, affecting over 47 million people.
Malnutrition rates have skyrocketed, with over 16 million children under 5 expected to suffer from acute malnourishment this year.
The World Food Programme is seeking hundreds of millions in additional funding to provide food aid during the lean season and prevent a further humanitarian catastrophe.
Without more funding, the already dire situation in West Africa may devolve into famine, armed conflict over resources, and other mass suffering.