WFP and its partners are scaling up to reach some 8.8 million people across the Sahel region of Africa where drought has sparked a hunger crisis for the third time in recent years.

In particular: 

Situation in Niger: Even before the crisis, malnutrition rates were high - 20 percent Global Acute Malnutrition rate among children under two last year. Erratic rains and pest infestations have decimated harvests in centre and west. Cereal deficit of more than 500,000 metric tons. Prices for all cereals are well above the seasonal average for the past five years.

What we’re doing in Niger: WFP has launched an emergency operation to support 3.3 million people, with a special focus on children under two. Some 35 percent of people being assisted will receive cash. Over 600,000 people have already received support through food-for-assets and cash-for-work programmes.

Photos: WFP/Koko Masseme