The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has issued a stark warning that the El Nino weather phenomenon will push an additional six million people into hunger across West and Central Africa by mid-2026. This comes as the region already grapples with record levels of food insecurity, with over 55 million people expected to face acute hunger during the lean season.
WFP's Dire Forecast
According to the WFP, the impact of El Nino, characterized by below-average rainfall and extreme heat, is set to devastate agricultural production in some of the most vulnerable countries, including Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Mali, and Burkina Faso. The agency's latest report, released on August 5, 2026, projects that the number of food-insecure people in the region will rise from 49 million to 55 million by the peak of the lean season in July and August.
"The situation is critical. We are seeing a perfect storm of conflict, economic instability, and now climate shocks that are driving millions to the brink," said a WFP spokesperson in a statement. "Without immediate and sustained funding, we will not be able to reach those in need, and the consequences will be catastrophic."
Impact on Agriculture and Livelihoods
El Nino has already caused significant delays in planting seasons and reduced crop yields across the Sahel. In Nigeria, the country's agricultural sector, which employs about 35% of the workforce, is expected to see a drop in output of up to 20% in the coming harvest. This will not only affect food availability but also exacerbate inflation and reduce the purchasing power of households.
Pastoralist communities are also severely affected, as water sources dry up and pasture becomes scarce, leading to increased livestock deaths and displacements. The WFP warns that this could fuel further intercommunal conflicts over resources.
Funding Shortfall Threatens Response
The WFP's emergency response plan for the region requires $850 million to assist 20 million people, but only 15% of that amount has been funded so far. The agency is appealing to international donors to step up contributions to avert a humanitarian catastrophe.
"We are in a race against time. Every dollar counts, and we need to act now to prevent a repeat of the 2012 crisis, which claimed thousands of lives," added the spokesperson.
Long-Term Solutions Needed
While immediate aid is crucial, the WFP emphasizes the need for long-term investments in climate-resilient agriculture, water management, and social protection programs. The agency is working with governments in the region to implement early warning systems and drought-resistant crops, but these efforts require sustained political will and financing.
As the world's attention is focused on other crises, the WFP warns that West and Central Africa cannot be ignored. The time to act is now, before the situation spirals further out of control.
