Yemen’s districts under the control of the Government of Yemen (GoY) have seen slight improvements in food security in the first five months of this year, but the situation remains dire, with escalating levels of acute malnutrition, according to a report by FAO, UNICEF, and WFP. Yemen continues to grapple with one of the highest levels of food insecurity globally, driven by conflict and economic decline.
Between January and May 2023, approximately 3.2 million people in GoY areas experienced high levels of acute food insecurity, a 23% reduction from the previous quarter. However, the report warns that these modest improvements are only temporary, as the underlying drivers of food insecurity persist and are projected to worsen in the coming months.
The report predicts a 20% increase in the number of people facing severe food insecurity (IPC Phase 3 and above) from June to December 2023, with an estimated 3.9 million people experiencing high levels of acute food insecurity. This includes 2.8 million people in Crisis (IPC Phase 3) and 1.1 million in Emergency (IPC Phase 4). These projections are compounded by a 20% decrease in humanitarian food assistance and rising food prices, exacerbating the crisis.
Additionally, the malnutrition situation in Yemen is alarming, particularly in southern governorates. An estimated half a million children are expected to suffer from acute malnutrition in 2023, including nearly 100,000 severely malnourished children. Furthermore, approximately a quarter million pregnant and lactating women will face acute malnutrition, while child stunting rates are alarmingly high.
The report highlights the critical need for sustained investment and urgent action to address the root causes of food insecurity and malnutrition in Yemen. The FAO, UNICEF, and WFP, along with their partners, are appealing for renewed support to provide vital assistance such as food, nutrition services, healthcare, and protection to millions of vulnerable Yemenis. Without immediate intervention, Yemen’s food crisis and malnutrition levels are poised to worsen, threatening the lives and well-being of millions of people.
