Only One in Nine Afghans in Need Currently Receives Food Assistance, and One in Three Experiences Acute Hunger

The UN World Food Programme warns Afghanistan's hunger crisis is worsening, with 14 million people facing acute food insecurity amid severe funding shortages. Only one in nine Afghans in need currently receives food assistance, and one in three experiences acute hunger. Child malnutrition has hit critical levels in 12 provinces, with 80 percent of severe cases involving children under two.

WFP cites unemployment, rising food prices, declining funding, economic hardship, and trade route disruptions as drivers. Nearly six million Afghans have returned or been deported from Iran and Pakistan since September 2023, straining the economy. Country director John Ayliffe says border tensions with Pakistan and Middle East instability have raised essential food prices by 20 to 30 percent.

Only one in seven women and children with acute malnutrition can access treatment, and specialized nutritious food has been suspended since May 2025 due to funding gaps. WFP needs $900 million for 2026 and at least $500 million before year-end to continue operations, especially ahead of winter. Without immediate support, hunger and malnutrition will worsen, endangering millions, particularly children, pregnant women, and low-income families.