A new report from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) has warned that acute food insecurity is expected to worsen across 13 hunger hotspots between June and November 2026.
The latest Hunger Hotspots report highlights Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen, and Palestine as areas of highest concern, with Northeast Nigeria and Somalia also facing rapidly deteriorating food security conditions that could push vulnerable communities closer to catastrophic hunger.
Conflict and violence remain the leading drivers of hunger in most affected regions, impacting 12 of the 13 identified hotspots. Economic instability, climate-related shocks, limited humanitarian funding, and the risk of extreme weather events are adding further pressure on already vulnerable populations.
The report notes that millions of people are facing severe food insecurity as humanitarian resources decline. Funding for food assistance, emergency agriculture support, and nutrition programs has dropped significantly in recent years, making it harder to respond to growing needs.
FAO and WFP warned that Sudan continues to face one of the world’s most severe hunger crises, with millions experiencing acute food insecurity and some areas at risk of famine. South Sudan, Yemen, and Palestine also remain among the most critical situations, with conflict and instability disrupting access to food and essential services.
In Northeast Nigeria, worsening conditions in Borno State have raised concerns over possible catastrophe-level hunger, while Somalia faces renewed risks due to drought, conflict, low agricultural production, and economic pressures.
Other countries including Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, Myanmar, Mali, Lebanon, and Madagascar are also experiencing serious food insecurity challenges driven by conflict, displacement, economic hardship, and climate impacts.
FAO and WFP emphasized that early action, increased humanitarian support, and investment in resilient food systems are essential to prevent hunger crises from escalating. The organizations called for stronger international cooperation, reliable funding, and faster responses to protect communities before conditions reach famine levels.
The report highlights that immediate action can save lives, support livelihoods, and reduce the long-term impact of global food crises.
