WFP, UNICEF Launch Global Partnership to Combat Deadly Child Malnutrition in Crisis Zones

The World Food Programme (WFP) and UNICEF have launched a joint initiative targeting 15 crisis-affected countries to eradicate child wasting—the deadliest form of malnutrition.

With 45 million children under 5 suffering globally, nearly two-thirds reside in these flashpoints, including South Sudan and Ethiopia, where conflict, climate disasters, and funding shortages exacerbate hunger, according to an article published on Reliefweb.com.

In South Sudan, 3 million mothers and children face malnutrition—over a quarter of the population. WFP provides life-saving peanut paste and hygiene training, but aid cuts have halved rations. Ethiopia’s Tigray region mirrors the crisis, with wasting rates exceeding emergency thresholds. WFP risks halting aid to 2 million Ethiopians by June without urgent funding.

The partnership aims to streamline resources, combining food delivery with nutrition education and early intervention. “Every minute a child’s life is at risk,” warns WFP’s Cindy McCain. In Central African Republic, clinics report declining severe cases thanks to WFP’s targeted support, like for toddler Essaie, treated for malaria and malnutrition.

While progress is possible—evidenced by reduced mortality in some areas—the agencies stress that funding gaps threaten gains. “We can get food to those in need,” says WFP’s Michele Quintaglie, “but without money, children will die.”