Hunger Crisis Deepens in Eastern DRC as WFP Struggles to Reach Millions

Geneva – A severe hunger crisis is rapidly escalating in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), leaving millions on the brink of starvation. The World Food Programme (WFP) has warned that it can only reach a small percentage of those in need due to a critical lack of funding and significant logistical challenges in accessing affected areas.

Alarming Rise in Food Insecurity

Speaking from Kinshasa, Cynthia Jones, WFP Country Director for the DRC, addressed a UN press conference, highlighting the dire situation. “One in three people in the eastern provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri, and Tanganyika are facing crisis levels of hunger or worse,” Jones stated. “That’s over 10 million people.”

The figures paint a grim picture of escalating food insecurity. According to WFP data, approximately 3 million people in eastern DRC are experiencing emergency levels of hunger. This represents 75 percent of all individuals facing such severe conditions across the entire nation. The situation has deteriorated significantly since March 2025, with an increase of 700,000 people falling into this category.

Funding Shortages and Access Constraints Hamper Relief Efforts

The WFP has identified a significant funding shortfall as a primary obstacle to scaling up its operations. The agency is struggling to secure the necessary resources to provide adequate food assistance to the growing number of people in need. The complex security situation in eastern DRC, characterized by ongoing conflict and the presence of numerous armed groups, further complicates access to vulnerable populations.

“The combination of insufficient funding and challenging access constraints is creating a perfect storm, hindering our ability to effectively respond to this escalating crisis,” Jones explained. The WFP is appealing to the international community to urgently provide the necessary financial support to prevent a further deterioration of the humanitarian situation.

Historical Context and Current Drivers of the Crisis

The DRC has a long history of conflict and instability, particularly in the eastern regions. Decades of armed conflict, displacement, and weak governance have contributed to chronic food insecurity. The presence of numerous armed groups vying for control of resources has disrupted agricultural activities and trade, further exacerbating the situation.

The current crisis is also being driven by a combination of factors, including the ongoing conflict, the impact of climate change, and the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Displacement caused by conflict has forced many people to abandon their farms and livelihoods, while extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods, have damaged crops and reduced agricultural yields.

Expert Perspective: The Need for a Multi-faceted Approach

Dr. Emmanuel Kabemba, a Congolese political analyst specializing in conflict resolution and development, emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of the hunger crisis. "While humanitarian assistance is crucial in the short term, it is essential to address the underlying issues that contribute to food insecurity," Dr. Kabemba explained. "This includes strengthening governance, promoting peace and security, investing in sustainable agriculture, and empowering local communities."

He added that the international community must work with the Congolese government and local stakeholders to develop long-term solutions that promote resilience and prevent future crises. "Sustainable development initiatives, coupled with conflict resolution efforts, are essential to break the cycle of hunger and instability in eastern DRC," he said.

Analytical Viewpoint: The Impact on Regional Stability

The escalating hunger crisis in eastern DRC has the potential to further destabilize the region. Food insecurity can exacerbate existing tensions and contribute to social unrest. The competition for scarce resources can also fuel conflict and displacement, potentially spilling over into neighboring countries.

Addressing the hunger crisis is therefore not only a humanitarian imperative but also a strategic necessity. Failure to provide adequate assistance could have serious consequences for regional peace and security. The international community must act decisively to prevent a further deterioration of the situation and support the DRC in its efforts to build a more stable and prosperous future.

WFP's Ongoing Efforts

Despite the challenges, the WFP continues to provide food assistance to vulnerable populations in eastern DRC. The agency is working to improve access to affected areas and scale up its operations as resources become available. However, the scale of the crisis requires a much larger and more sustained response.

Providing food rations to displaced families and vulnerable communities. Supporting nutrition programs for children and pregnant women. Working with local partners to strengthen food systems and promote sustainable agriculture.

The WFP is calling on the international community to urgently increase its funding for humanitarian assistance in the DRC and to work with the Congolese government to address the root causes of the hunger crisis.