• Somalia faces a severe hunger crisis, with 4.4 million people affected.
• UN warns that food assistance may halt by April due to funding shortages.
• Nutrition support for vulnerable populations has dramatically decreased.

The World Food Programme (WFP) has issued a dire warning, stating that Somalia is on the brink of a worsening hunger crisis that could escalate into famine without urgent financial support. The situation is exacerbated by two consecutive failed rainy seasons, ongoing conflict, and increasing displacement, which have left around 4.4 million people—approximately a quarter of the population—experiencing severe food insecurity, according to aa.

With funding shortages, WFP's critical food assistance may cease by April, risking the livelihoods of those already under severe stress. Currently, the agency has reduced the number of beneficiaries from 2.2 million to about 640,000 over the past year, significantly impacting the availability of nutrition programs for pregnant women and children, which have been cut by more than 75%. Ross Smith, WFP Director of Emergency Preparedness and Response, emphasized the urgent need for immediate food support to avert further deterioration in conditions, as highlighted by aljazeera and reuters.

The WFP has noted that without immediate action, the humanitarian and economic consequences would be devastating, not just within Somalia but potentially affecting surrounding regions as well. Smith warned that families are losing everything, leaving many at a critical juncture as the WFP seeks $95 million to maintain operations between March and August 2026. The agency's operational capacity remains intact; however, it is contingent upon securing much-needed funds, according to aa, aljazeera, and reuters.