New York, As the conflict in Gaza reaches its six-month mark, the World Food Programme (WFP) is working tirelessly to provide food assistance to over a million people each month in the face of escalating malnutrition and logistical hurdles. The region is on the brink of famine, with children being disproportionately affected by acute malnutrition. Despite these challenges, WFP’s efforts have been crucial in mitigating the crisis, although sustained and safe access to all areas remains a critical need.
According to United Nations Pakistan, the situation in Gaza is dire, with approximately 90 percent of the population displaced and living in inadequate conditions, such as tents and shelters lacking basic services. The WFP has been successful in delivering food to these areas, but the number of food trucks reaching the northern part of Gaza is insufficient due to security risks, logistical constraints, and the need for numerous clearances and inspections.
The WFP has reported a concerning rise in malnutrition rates, especially among children under two years old, where acute malnutrition rates have doubled in just two months. In Northern Gaza, this rate has reached 30 percent as of March. Comparatively, in Rafah, where WFP has better access to distribute specialized nutritious food, the increase in malnutrition among children has been slower, highlighting the effectiveness of targeted humanitarian aid.
The report highlights a significant funding gap, with WFP requiring $760 million by the end of 2024 to continue its operations. The organization stresses the importance of road access for delivering substantial volumes of aid and calls for a humanitarian ceasefire to allow safe movement and the scaling up of aid distribution to prevent famine.
The tragic loss of the World Central Kitchen team while delivering food in Gaza underscores the dangerous conditions faced by humanitarian workers. The international community and the WFP are urging for secure access throughout Gaza to enable effective famine prevention efforts and to safeguard the well-being of the displaced and vulnerable populations.