Africa Becomes World’s Hunger Epicentre as UN Warns of Growing Risks to Children’s Wellbeing
Africa’s position as the continent with the highest number of people facing hunger has raised renewed concerns about the impact of food insecurity on children’s health, development, and protection.
A new United Nations report revealed that 309 million people in Africa experienced hunger in 2025, representing about 20 per cent of the continent’s population. The report also found that 66.6 per cent of Africans could not afford a healthy diet, increasing risks for vulnerable groups, especially children.
Child protection experts warn that prolonged hunger can expose children to multiple risks, including malnutrition, poor school attendance, weakened immunity, and increased vulnerability to exploitation and unsafe situations. Access to adequate nutrition is recognised as a fundamental part of ensuring children’s survival, growth, and wellbeing.
The UN agencies behind the report attributed worsening food insecurity in Africa to factors including climate-related shocks, conflicts, and economic challenges that disrupt access to food and livelihoods.
In conflict-affected areas, children often face the greatest consequences as families struggle to secure basic needs. Humanitarian organisations have continued to call for child-centred responses that combine food assistance, healthcare, education support, and protection services.
The report’s findings highlight the need for governments and partners to strengthen systems that protect children from the long-term effects of hunger and ensure every child has access to nutritious food and a safe environment.
