The United Nations World Food Programme has calculated that achieving the goal of ending hunger by the year 2030 would necessitate an annual investment of only $93 billion.

This figure represents less than one per cent of the $21.9 trillion that has been spent on global military budgets over the last decade.

The food agency’s 2026 Global Outlook report projected a dramatic increase in global hunger, stating that by 2026, a staggering 318 million people would be facing crisis levels of hunger or worse. This is more than double the figure that was recorded in 2019.

The WFP has indicated that international financial support directed toward the world’s most food-insecure populations is “slow, fragmented, and Underfunded.” This lack of funding suggests that many people residing in global conflict zones will likely be unable to receive adequate assistance in the coming year.

“The poorest pay the ultimate price,” said UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed. Ms. Mohammed employed an African proverb to illustrate the situation, stating, “When the elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers.”

Ms. Mohammed explained that this proverb conveys the idea that when powerful nations, organizations, or individuals engage in conflict, it is the weak or innocent who bear the heaviest burden of the suffering. Around the world, she noted, that “grass”—the innocent civilians—in places like Gaza, Sudan, Yemen, Haiti, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Sahel, “are suffering beyond measure.”

The UN Deputy Chief stated that families are currently “paying the price for wars they did not start, and for decisions made in rooms where their voices are never heard.”

WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain affirmed the agency’s commitment, saying: “WFP provides a critical lifeline to people on the frontlines of conflicts and weather disasters, as well as those forced to leave their homes, and we are transforming how we work to invest in long-term solutions to address food insecurity.”

In 2026, the WFP plans to assist 110 million vulnerable people at an estimated cost of $13 billion. This aid will encompass emergency food distribution, community resilience programmes, nutrition support, and technical assistance aimed at strengthening national systems.

Ms. McCain expressed deep concern, stating: “The world is grappling with simultaneous famines in Gaza and parts of Sudan. This is completely unacceptable in the twenty-first century.” She added: “Across the globe, hunger is becoming more entrenched. WFP has proven time and again that early, effective, and innovative solutions can save lives and change lives – but we desperately need more support to continue this vital work.”

Ms. Mohammed outlined key priorities crucial for ending global hunger, which include investing in climate adaptation, supporting local markets, promoting peace, and ensuring that young people and women have decision-making power and ownership.