Archive for category: Hunger

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Data Harvest: Predictive Famine Modeling

Predictive famine modelingFamine rarely arrives without warning. Yet in many cases, the signs go unnoticed until people are already on the brink. A new wave of data-driven tools and predictive famine modeling seeks to change that. Satellites, mobile surveys, artificial intelligence (AI) and harmonized datasets are being used to forecast hunger months in advance—and whether those predictions can be turned into action.

The Urgency: Hunger on the Rise

Globally, more than 343 million people face severe food insecurity, a surge driven by climate shocks, conflict and economic instability. Behind those numbers are families skipping meals, parents who go hungry so their children can eat and communities forced to make impossible choices. In 2025, the World Food Program (WFP) warned that 58 million people risk losing food assistance unless emergency funding is secured.

For those on the ground, this doesn’t just mean smaller rations—it can mean no rations. In places already strained by drought or conflict, the absence of aid can tip households from hardship into catastrophe. Donor contributions have dropped by 40% compared to the previous year, leaving many relief programs strained and at risk of collapse.

This funding shortfall comes at the worst possible time: wars and weather extremes are multiplying, food prices are volatile and the world’s most vulnerable are bearing the brunt. The humanitarian community has described it as a “perfect storm,” where shrinking resources collide with rising needs.

In this context, predictive famine modeling is of critical importance. If the world cannot guarantee more food aid today, it can at least sharpen its ability to see where tomorrow’s hunger will strike. The question is whether we can turn foresight into action—moving from a cycle of crisis response to one of prevention.

The Data Revolution

Researchers are combining data streams that once seemed unrelated to forecast hunger more effectively. Every signal tells part of the story, from satellites watching rainfall and crop growth to mobile phone surveys capturing what families eat each week. Remote sensing provides a broad view of land and weather patterns that hint at failing harvests. At the same time, phone interviews and household surveys show how people cope—whether meals are being skipped or diets are being cut back.

To bring this information together, new tools such as the Harmonized Food Insecurity Dataset (HFID) now integrate multiple indicators into one monthly, subnational series. It gives analysts a clearer picture of when and where food stress worsens. Even unconventional sources are being tapped: the AI model HungerGist, for example, scans thousands of news reports to detect signals of looming food crises that traditional surveys may miss.

The result is a new way of seeing hunger. Instead of reacting once famine takes hold, analysts can detect trouble months in advance and pinpoint specific regions at risk. By weaving together these diverse sources, predictive famine modeling moves humanitarian response from hindsight to foresight.

Case Study: Zimbabwe’s Survey Fusion

One of the most promising real-world examples comes from Zimbabwe. Researchers developed a joint Multilevel Regression & Poststratification (jMRP) model that fuses high-frequency mobile survey data from WFP’s mVAM with annual face-to-face surveys conducted by ZimVAC. Mobile phone data alone is fast but imprecise, while in-person surveys are accurate but slow. The fused model corrects for bias, narrows uncertainty and produces monthly, district-level estimates of food insecurity.

It allowed agencies to detect worsening conditions in specific regions before new survey rounds arrived—a major step toward real-time hunger monitoring. This illustrates how predictive famine modeling can combine imperfect but frequent data with slower, more accurate surveys to produce actionable insights.

Challenges and Blind Spots

However, predictive famine modeling is not a silver bullet. Conflict zones and remote areas often remain invisible because reliable surveys cannot be conducted there. Bias is another issue: phone surveys exclude people without access to mobile technology and news-based models can be distorted by unequal media coverage.

Proxy data also have limitations—crop stress or rainfall deficits do not always translate into hunger if aid, markets or remittances intervene. And even the best predictions cannot guarantee action: humanitarian actors face funding shortfalls, logistics challenges and political barriers that can prevent aid from reaching people on time.

Looking Ahead: From Bytes To Bites

Despite these challenges, the potential of predictive models is clear. With climate shocks, conflict and economic crises overlapping, early warnings are more necessary than ever. Experts argue three steps are critical: expanding data coverage through community surveys, integrating forecasts directly into aid planning to trigger cash transfers or prepositioned supplies and securing reliable funding so warnings are acted upon rather than ignored.

Ultimately, the goal is to turn “bytes into bites.” Predictive famine modeling is not the same as preventing hunger. However, with better data and stronger response systems, famine need not arrive silently. If early warnings can be matched with early action, the world could finally begin to stop famine before it strikes.

– Diane Dunlop

Diane is based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Fighting Food Insecurity in Georgia

Fighting Food Insecurity in Georgia Georgia, a country located between Europe and Asia, has seen steady improvements in poverty and food insecurity. However, recent events including the Russia-Ukraine conflict, mean that actively fighting these issues is still essential.

Food Insecurity in Georgia

The New Humanitarian reported in 2022 that while Georgia typically did not experience high levels of food insecurity due to its reliance on Russia and Ukraine, the war between the two has caused food insecurity and poverty to rise. Wheat imports to Georgia were significantly reduced after the start of the war, with “105,000 tons in the first three quarters, compared to 283,000 tons in 2021 and 368,700 tons in 2020,” and 30% of people who responded to a poll in Georgia said they could not afford the food they needed every month.

More recent statistics from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) show that of Georgia’s 3.7 million population, 11.8% were living below the national poverty line. Additionally, between 2021 and 2023, 4% of the total population was undernourished. While food insecurity and undernourishment are not as high in children, with 0.6% malnourished (wasting), the Global Hunger Index reports that the growth of 5.1% of children under the age of 5 is stunted and 0.9% of children die before turning 5. Therefore, while Georgia ranks low on the Global Hunger Index, fighting food insecurity in Georgia remains essential.

Organizations Making a Difference in Georgia

While food insecurity remains a problem, numerous charities and organizations are working to tackle the issue. Action Against Hunger has 34 employees in Georgia and has worked to reduce food insecurity in the country since 1993. In 2024, it helped 35,460 people. The organization focuses particularly on helping Ukrainian refugees in Georgia, providing food and hygiene support to 886 refugees. The organization also tackles food insecurity at its source by supporting projects focused on job creation and agricultural livelihood training so that families experiencing poverty and food insecurity become more self-reliant.

Another organization fighting food insecurity in Georgia is People in Need, which collaborated with the European Union in launching Georgia’s first food bank initiative. This program takes a sustainable approach by redistributing unsold food to those in need. It also addresses the causes of food insecurity, not only by reducing food waste through community-level awareness campaigns but also by cutting greenhouse gas emissions and farm losses.

Looking Forward

Through the continued efforts of these organizations dedicated to fighting food insecurity in Georgia, the percentage of those in the country experiencing hunger has stayed low. However, due to the unpredictability of the Russia-Ukraine war, it is crucial that these organizations continue to receive support so they can carry on their important work.

– Victoria Adrados

Victoria is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How US Support Is Tackling Hunger and Malnutrition in Kenya

Hunger and Malnutrition in KenyaKenya faces a persistent hunger and malnutrition crisis, with more than 18.7 million people, more than one-third of the population, undernourished. Recurring droughts, floods and disease outbreaks exacerbate this process. However, United States (U.S.) foreign aid alleviates this situation through various programs and initiatives.

US Humanitarian Assistance in Kenya

In response to the 2023 Horn of Africa drought, the U.S. government, through USAID, provided nearly $310 million in humanitarian assistance to Kenya. This funding supported emergency food aid, nutrition programs and resilience-building activities.

Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has been instrumental in combating child malnutrition in Kenya through the McGovern-Dole Food for Education Program. In 2023, this program supplied U.S.-grown food to more than 650,000 children across more than 2,000 schools, ensuring they receive nutritious meals that support their education and overall well-being.

Addressing Acute Malnutrition

Acute malnutrition remains a significant concern, particularly among children under 5. As of October 2023, approximately 847,000 children in Kenya were facing acute malnutrition. U.S. aid contributes to programs that provide therapeutic feeding, micronutrient supplementation and community-based nutrition interventions to address this issue.

Supporting Refugees and Vulnerable Populations

Kenya hosts a substantial refugee population, many of whom are at heightened risk of food insecurity. In 2024, the U.S. government allocated $37 million to support refugees in Kenya, enabling the World Food Programme (WFP) to increase food rations and resume cash transfers in camps like Dadaab and Kakuma. These efforts are crucial in preventing malnutrition and promoting the self-reliance of displaced individuals.

Challenges and Ongoing Needs

Despite these efforts, challenges persist. The Global Hunger Index 2024 categorizes Kenya’s hunger level as “serious,” with indicators such as child stunting and undernourishment remaining high. Moreover, recent U.S. aid cuts have led to significant reductions in food assistance for refugees, with some receiving only 28% of the recommended food rations, putting vulnerable populations at further risk.

Funding shortfalls have also become a pressing challenge. In recent years, reductions in U.S. aid have forced humanitarian organizations to scale back food assistance. Such shortfalls endanger vulnerable populations and risk undoing years of progress in improving food security. Without sustained investment, cycles of hunger and malnutrition in Kenya could worsen, especially during climate shocks.

Another obstacle is climate instability. Kenya’s heavy reliance on rain-fed agriculture makes its population highly vulnerable to droughts and floods. Extreme weather events have become more frequent, damaging crops, killing livestock and reducing access to safe water. While humanitarian assistance can provide short-term relief, long-term resilience requires greater investment in sustainable farming practices, climate adaptation and diversified food systems.

U.S. programs that combine food assistance with resilience-building measures are therefore vital. However, their reach remains limited compared to the scale of the crisis.

Looking Forward

The partnership between the U.S. and Kenya shows the importance of international cooperation in fighting hunger. U.S. assistance has helped millions of Kenyans access life-saving food, reduced rates of acute malnutrition among children and supported education through school meals. Often among the hardest hit, refugees have also benefited from direct food aid and cash transfers that restore dignity and choice in how families feed themselves.

Still, the persistence of hunger in Kenya serves as a reminder that humanitarian aid cannot be the only solution. Addressing root causes—poverty, inequality, climate instability and fragile health systems—is essential for long-term progress. Programs that integrate food assistance with agricultural development, women’s empowerment and climate adaptation can create more sustainable outcomes. The U.S., alongside Kenyan institutions and international partners, will need to continue expanding investments in these areas to prevent recurring food crises.

Ultimately, U.S. foreign aid is more than just emergency relief—it is an investment in human potential and stability. By ensuring children are well-nourished, families are food-secure and communities are resilient, these efforts contribute to Kenya’s broader development goals. While challenges remain, ongoing U.S. support provides a foundation of hope that Kenya can reduce hunger and malnutrition, even in the face of climate and economic pressures.

– Skylar Roy

Skylar is based in Carlsbad, California, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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US aid fighting hunger in Kenya

hunger in kenyaKenya faces a persistent hunger and malnutrition crisis, with more than 18.7 million people, more than one-third of the population, undernourished. Recurring droughts, floods and disease outbreaks exacerbate this process. However, U.S. foreign aid alleviates this situation through various programs and initiatives.

US Humanitarian Assistance in Kenya

In response to the 2023 Horn of Africa drought, the U.S. government, through USAID, provided nearly $310 million in humanitarian assistance to Kenya. This funding supported emergency food aid, nutrition programs and resilience-building activities.

Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has been instrumental in combating child malnutrition in Kenya through the McGovern-Dole Food for Education Program. In 2023, this program supplied U.S.-grown food to more than 650,000 children across more than 2,000 schools, ensuring they receive nutritious meals that support their education and overall well-being.

Addressing Acute Malnutrition

Acute malnutrition remains a significant concern, particularly among children under 5. As of October 2023, approximately 847,000 children in Kenya were facing acute malnutrition. U.S. aid contributes to programs that provide therapeutic feeding, micronutrient supplementation and community-based nutrition interventions to address this issue.

Kenya hosts a substantial refugee population, many of whom are at heightened risk of food insecurity. In 2024, the U.S. government allocated $37 million to support refugees in Kenya, enabling the World Food Programme (WFP) to increase food rations and resume cash transfers in camps like Dadaab and Kakuma. These efforts are crucial in preventing malnutrition and promoting the self-reliance of displaced individuals.

Challenges and Ongoing Needs

Despite these efforts, challenges persist. The Global Hunger Index 2024 categorizes Kenya’s hunger level as “serious,” with indicators such as child stunting and undernourishment remaining high. Moreover, recent U.S. aid cuts have led to significant reductions in food assistance for refugees, with some receiving only 28% of the recommended food rations, putting vulnerable populations at further risk.

Funding shortfalls have also become a pressing challenge. In recent years, reductions in U.S. aid have forced humanitarian organizations to scale back food assistance. Such shortfalls endanger vulnerable populations and risk undoing years of progress in improving food security. Without sustained investment, cycles of hunger and malnutrition could worsen, especially during weather shocks.

Another obstacle is climate instability. Kenya’s heavy reliance on rain-fed agriculture makes its population highly vulnerable to droughts and floods. Extreme weather events have become more frequent, damaging crops, killing livestock and reducing access to safe water. While humanitarian assistance can provide short-term relief, long-term resilience requires greater investment in sustainable farming practices, climate adaptation and diversified food systems.

U.S. programs that combine food assistance with resilience-building measures are therefore vital. However, their reach remains limited compared to the scale of the crisis.

Looking Forward

The partnership between the U.S. and Kenya shows the importance of international cooperation in fighting hunger. U.S. assistance has helped millions of Kenyans access life-saving food, reduced rates of acute malnutrition among children and supported education through school meals. Often among the hardest hit, refugees have also benefited from direct food aid and cash transfers that restore dignity and choice in how families feed themselves.

Still, the persistence of hunger in Kenya serves as a reminder that humanitarian aid cannot be the only solution. Addressing root causes—poverty, inequality, weather instability and fragile health systems—is essential for long-term progress. Programs that integrate food assistance with agricultural development, women’s empowerment and climate adaptation can create more sustainable outcomes. The U.S., alongside Kenyan institutions and international partners, will need to continue expanding investments in these areas to prevent recurring food crises.

Ultimately, U.S. foreign aid is more than just emergency relief—it is an investment in human potential and stability. By ensuring children are well-nourished, families are food-secure and communities are resilient, these efforts contribute to Kenya’s broader development goals. While challenges remain, ongoing U.S. support provides a foundation of hope that Kenya can reduce hunger and malnutrition, even in the face of climate and economic pressures.

– Skylar Roy

Skylar is based in Carlsbad, CA, U.S.A and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Causes and Solutions to Hunger in Kenya

Hunger in KenyaPoverty is on the rise. It is a worldwide problem, but Africa’s hardest hit area is the sub-Saharan region. According to the World Food Program (WFP), about half of those living in extreme poverty live in this region. Kenya is among the nations in that region.

Poverty and Hunger in Kenya

Poverty manifests in many ways, including hunger. Around 30% of Kenya’s population lives in poverty. Households headed by women have a poverty rate of 35.3%. Male-headed households, in comparison, have a poverty rate of 32.6%. According to the Kenya Poverty Report, a third of the children in Kenya are food poor. Poverty rates for youth are higher in rural areas. According to the WFP, 29% of the children in rural Kenya are stunted due to malnutrition.

The causes of poverty in Kenya include natural disasters and economic shocks. Lower-than-average rainfall has affected Kenya’s agricultural and pastoral areas for several years. This drought has affected livestock as well as crop production. On the other end of the pendulum, flooding destroyed whole towns and villages, displacing more than 280,000 people. It killed more than 260 people in 2024. Livestock and other crops were lost.

These climate crises affect adequate food availability, increasing prices and sending more people toward poverty. Another factor affecting Kenya’s ability to feed its people is the conflict in Ukraine. Kenya is dependent on fertilizer imported from Russia. When the conflict began, Russia no longer sent fertilizer to Kenya. COVID-19 also affected Kenya’s economy, as it relies heavily on tourism.

The Kenyan government has committed to addressing the problem through agriculture. It has lifted the ban on open cultivation of genetically modified crops, eased food import restrictions and imported animal feed to reduce hunger in Kenya.

Boosting Kenyan Agriculture and Food Security

The Borgen Project interviewed Sterling Brown, a senior at Southern University majoring in Agricultural Business. He traveled to Kenya to learn about different agricultural methods and share knowledge with local farmers. According to Brown, agriculture is the largest sector of the Kenyan economy. He highlights the following solutions to address food insecurity and hunger in Kenya:

  • Integration farming. Using all available resources, including livestock and organic matter. This includes using manure as fertilizer (instead of importing fertilizer).
  • Microorganism growth. The inclusion of microorganisms in the soil enhances soil quality. Better soil leads to better crops.
  • Intercropping. This farming practice involves growing multiple crops in the same field. Different crops have different strengths, which helps improve soil quality.
  • Agroforestry. This is a sustainable agricultural practice and land management system. Farmers plant trees and then grow crops between and beside them. It creates a farming ecosystem. The trees counteract the effects of flooding, soil erosion and biodiversity loss.

In addition to the farming practices highlighted above, he and his team encouraged local farmers in Chuka and East Chuka, Kenya, to export their native crops, including avocados. This could boost their economy and provide another path out of poverty. They also held workshops and provided rootstocks, demonstrating how to plant and maintain them.

Brown is part of a program called the 1890 Center of Excellence, a collaboration between Southern University, the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff (UAPB), Chuka University and Kenyatta University in Kenya. According to Brown, this collaboration, combined with the Kenyan government’s interventions, new sustainability mandates and significant agricultural investment, is a step in the right direction.

– Danielle Milano

Danielle is based in Pineville, LA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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US Aid to Nigeria: $32.5 Million To Fight Hunger

US Aid to NigeriaIn 2025, the U.S. approved $32.5 million in humanitarian aid to Nigeria to respond to one of the country’s worst hunger crises in decades. The U.S. aid to Nigeria will reach more than 764,000 individuals. It will deliver food supplies, nutritional supplements for malnourished children and support for pregnant and breastfeeding women. This package underscores the U.S.’s continued role in addressing global poverty, even amid broader cuts to foreign aid.

By targeting food insecurity in conflict-affected regions, the initiative highlights how American humanitarian assistance provides immediate relief while promoting stability and advancing long-term development goals.

The Hunger Crisis in Nigeria

Nigeria is experiencing a severe hunger crisis, with 30.6 million people unable to obtain enough food. On top of that, 17 million children are suffering from malnutrition, the second-highest number in the world. About 300,000 children are at risk as a result of the closure of more than 150 nutrition clinics in the states of Borno and Yobe due to a lack of funding.

Supply chains have been disrupted by insecurity. Many families can no longer afford the high cost of food due to inadequate infrastructure, high transportation expenses and significant post-harvest losses of up to 50%. Despite these obstacles, farmers continue planting in areas of relative stability. Local food is being processed and sold by women-led projects and youth-led logistics projects are starting to take shape.

U.S. aid to Nigeria will reach those who need it most. It will also strengthen local markets and agricultural systems by combining locally sourced food, cash-based assistance and targeted support for displaced populations.

The World Food Programme’s Role in Nigeria

The World Food Programme (WFP) is the largest humanitarian organization in the world. WFP helps communities recover from economic shocks, natural disasters and conflict while providing life-saving food assistance during emergencies. WFP works to improve nutrition, support smallholder farmers and strengthen local food systems in more than 120 countries.

Where possible, WFP pairs short-term assistance with livelihood programs. These programs help displaced people develop food processing, aquaculture and tailoring skills, providing them with opportunities for long-term stability. Beyond these, WFP coordinates logistics for more than 90 humanitarian organizations, provides secure communications and emergency connectivity. It also manages the U.N. Humanitarian Air Service to deliver relief supplies and personnel to isolated communities.

WFP is primarily funded by voluntary donations from governments, organizations, businesses and individuals. The nonprofit collaborates with the government, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), U.N. agencies and private sector partners to reach vulnerable populations in Nigeria. The organization has effectively decreased child malnutrition in Nigeria and offers emergency food assistance.

WFP works alongside the Nigerian government to strengthen food security policies, expand the country’s nationally owned school feeding program and build shock-responsive social protection systems.

How US Aid to Nigeria Will Address the Hunger Crisis

Despite significant cuts to U.S. foreign aid, Washington has made a new commitment. This support targets Nigeria’s northeast and northwest regions, where conflict and displacement have deepened food insecurity for hundreds of thousands. The funding arrives at a critical moment, as the WFP had warned of suspending operations due to resource shortages.

Nigeria has “unprecedented” levels of hunger, with millions at risk of malnutrition, according to WFP’s Regional Director for West Africa, Margot van der Velden. By channeling resources through WFP, the U.S. contribution helps stabilize communities on the brink of famine while reinforcing broader international efforts to support Nigeria in its hunger crisis.

– Isaac Nelson

Isaac is based in Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Preserving Tomorrow: Senegal’s Commitment To Fighting Hunger

Senegal’s Commitment To Fighting HungerThe concept of food preservation has existed for thousands of years, keeping communities alive during hungry seasons by preventing the immediate spoilage of fruits, meats and vegetables. Common methods of food preservation include freezing, drying, pickling, fermenting, curing, canning and creating jams and jellies.

Due to the extreme climate in Senegal, food preservation is vital for staying nourished. However, with limited access to ice and cooling methods, many Senegalese rely on sun-drying, solar drying, canning and fermentation to preserve foods. These challenges have never stopped Senegal’s commitment to fighting hunger.

Food Preservation in Senegal: Hot Water-Bath Canning

Despite its intense climate, Senegal is rich in food diversity, offering meals that include fish, beef, lamb, chicken, vegetables and rice. However, access to these foods can vary by region, making preservation essential. Commonly preserved foods in Senegal include fish, such as African catfish and fruits and vegetables.

The Borgen Project spoke with Dr. Rudd, an Agricultural, Leadership and Community Education professor at Virginia Tech, about his experiences with hot water bath canning in Senegal. “Hot water-bath canning is relatively easy to do with low-cost inputs,” explains Rudd. “Pressure canning is another option, but [it] requires specialized equipment and expertise.”

The Illuminate Project

Rudd shared his experiences with the Illuminate Project, a USDA-funded initiative that trains selected undergraduate students from Virginia Tech and Tennessee State University in proper hot water bath canning techniques. The project also partners with the University of Bambey in Senegal, where students work with local communities to teach food preservation methods such as canning tomatoes and mango sauce.

The Illuminate Project, a four-year effort, has supplied the University of Bambey with more than 1,000 jars and 10,000 lids to support the education of hot water bath canning in Senegal. When asked about the impact he has seen food preservation have in Senegal, Rudd answered, “Women are adopting the technology and using it in their homes and some have actually started selling canned products. It adds months of availability of preferred food to households.”

Policies in Senegal That Support Food Preservation

Senegal has implemented many policies in support of food security, preservation and general safety. With agriculture being recognized as a staple in Senegal’s economy, policies have significantly increased, reinforcing its importance. These policies further solidify Senegal’s commitment to fighting hunger.

The Food Security Support Project (PASA) was created to combat climate instability and the lack of government assistance, two components significantly affecting Senegal’s agriculture. Established in 2013, this project has assisted more than 30,000 farmers, providing them with methods to increase production, resulting in higher sales.

Over four years, rice farmers have seen their yields almost triple, allowing them to invest in other aspects of life. Although PASA does not directly help with food preservation, it creates conditions for effective and efficient food preservation, further supporting Senegal’s commitment to fighting hunger.

Senegal’s Food Safety Law 68-48 and its 1999 Decree establish regulations to ensure the safety of fruits, vegetables and other agricultural products. Under this policy, fresh produce is required to meet minimum safety requirements. This also encourages farmers to use proper food preservation practices, prioritizing the safety of consumers.

Final Notes

Food preservation plays a key role in ensuring stability in communities. With external factors such as extreme climates and limited resources, food preservation becomes even more important to Senegal’s commitment to fighting hunger. Preserving foods results in extended shelf life, consistent nutritional value and reduced waste.

– Casey Relyea

Casey is based in Moneta, VA, USA and focuses on Celebs and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pxhere

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Hunger in Portugal

Hunger in PortugalPortugal is widely recognized for its high quality of life, ranking 19th globally according to U.S. News. The country has universal access to clean drinking water, near-universal sanitation, a literacy rate of 97% as of 2021 and a life expectancy nearing 83 years, according to the World Bank. As a member of the European Union and a nation, Portugal is celebrated for its economic stability, vibrant culture and societal progression. But, despite these successes, hunger and food insecurity remain persistent issues that affect thousands of Portuguese families. 

Poverty’s Persistence

Portugal’s GDP per capita has risen to around $30,000 as of 2024 (an $8,000 increase since 2014, and unemployment has dropped substantially to 6.4 % as of 2024. These statistics reflect impressive progress compared to a decade ago, when the country was still emerging from a financial crisis that left many residents of Portugal in poverty. However, poverty and food insecurity continue to affect vulnerable groups. In 2023, roughly 16.6 % of the population was at risk of poverty. 

The Face of Food Insecurity

Official estimates from Portugal’s National Statistics Institute show that around 4.1 % of the population faces moderate or severe food insecurity. They also report that in 2024, 1.7 % of people reported having felt hungry without having eaten at some point within the 12 months before they were interviewed. 

Children in particular are at high risk. Published in 2025, a cross-sectional study was conducted with 4,737 children living in Portugal. The results of the study showed that 13.2 % of children were living in households considered food insecure. Alarmingly, 25.5 % of those households included children who were overweight/obese. This emphasizes the relationship between poverty, poor nutrition and physical health. 

Policies and The Future

In recent years, food insecurity has become an increasingly prominent issue both globally and within Portugal. This has prompted many coordinated efforts to ensure that vulnerable populations have sufficient access to nutritious food. Fortunately, Portugal has taken important steps to address food insecurity. Through its participation in the European Union’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) 2023-2027, Portugal is investing in sustainable farming, food security and rural development. Social programs and local charities, including food banks, play a vital role in supporting food-insecure families. 

One of the largest food banks in Portugal is the Banco Alimentar Contra a Fome (Food Bank Against Hunger). The bank is a nationwide network of 21 nonprofit food banks that fight against food waste and hunger in Portugal. They recover surplus food from producers, retailers, and public donations. Additionally, they hold biannual campaigns and run daily food collection efforts to help support families in need. Amazingly, the food bank collected enough food items to provide about 400,000 people with baskets or prepared meals.  

Globally, hunger declined slightly in 2024, yet it is still a pressing issue. Approximately 733 million people face chronic hunger worldwide as of 2023. On paper, Portugal’s hunger statistics appear relatively low compared to global figures. However, for many families, food insecurity is persistent and dominates their lives. With continued efforts, Portugal could further reduce hunger and ensure that all families have access to the nutrition they need.

– Ashton Christo

Ashton is based in Baltimore, MD, USA and focuses on World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Brazil’s Removal From the Hunger Map

Brazil's Removal From the Hunger MapOn Monday, July 28, 2025, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) removed Brazil from the U.N. Hunger map. Being on the Hunger Map means that most of the country’s population does not have regular access to enough food for a healthy life. Brazil was able to exit the hunger map due to Brazil’s government prioritizing poverty, stimulating job and income generation, supporting family farming, strengthening school feeding and creating access to healthy food.

Many plans, programs and initiatives were implemented to achieve Brazil’s removal from the Hunger Map. These plans include:

  • Food Supply National Plan, also known as “Food on the Plate.”
  • Agroecology and Organic Production National Plan (PLANAPO).
  • Arroz de gente (“Our Rice” Program).
  • Renovation and Modernization of Conab Warehouses.
  • Leasing of spaces at the São Paulo General Warehouse and Wholesale Company.
  • Public notice for the modernization of Food Banks at wholesale markets.
  • Strengthening territorial arrangements for the production and distribution of healthy foods.

The Food on the Plate and the PLANAPO Programs

The Food on the Plate,” and the PLANAPO plans were all created to ensure food on the table for all Brazilians. The programs also seek to minimize poverty by building a resilient and sustainable food production system that uplifts small-scale farmers, agriculture cooperatives and community-based associations. Central to this vision is a national commitment to ending hunger, ensuring equitable access to nutritious food for all, while promoting environmental health and local empowerment.

Rice Production and the Zero Hunger Strategy

Our Rice Program provides low-interest credit and technical support to small producers while supplying rice to solidarity kitchens and food-insecure populations, helping those in poverty. The renovation of the Conab warehouse increases grain intake capacity, improves food logistics and reduces spoilage. Meanwhile, the leasing of spaces enhances the distribution of fresh produce to urban areas. It stimulates economic activity and job creation through expanded vendor participation.

In parallel, the modernization of food banks, which is aligned with the national “Food on the Plate” plan, upgrades the infrastructure for food recovery and redistribution. This initiative helps redirect surplus food to vulnerable populations, improving efficiency and equity in the food system. These programs promote sustainability, reduce hunger and strengthen Brazil’s resilience against economic and environmental disruptions.

Brazil also implemented the zero hunger strategy, which allows access to adequate food, agricultural support, income-generating activities and social participation. These plans and programs allowed Brazil to leave the Hunger Map and helped many underserved communities.

Conclusion

Brazil’s removal from the Hunger Map marks a transformative milestone in its fight against poverty and food insecurity. The country has shown that systematic change is possible when policy meets community needs through strategies like sustainable agriculture, modernized infrastructure and inclusive social programs.

Initiatives like Food on the Plate, PLANAPO and Arroz de Gente improved food access, empowered small producers and revitalized local economies. Brazil’s success story offers a powerful model for other nations grappling with hunger, proving that hunger can be eradicated with political will, innovation and grassroots engagement.

– Karisma Polly

Karisma is based in Sunrise, FL, USA and focuses on Global Health and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Collapsed Food Systems in Sudan: How 80 Cents Can Help

Food Systems in SudanAs Sudan’s civil conflict enters its third year, health conditions have sharply deteriorated as the collapse of the food systems in Sudan has overwhelmed them. The country is currently facing the world’s largest hunger crisis, with 24.6 million individuals experiencing food insecurity. The civil war has devastated the Sudanese economy, agricultural livelihoods and food markets, particularly in North Darfur and the Western Nuba Mountains. The level of internally displaced people, an estimated 9 million people, fleeing an extreme threat to life, has further exacerbated the famine.

Inside the Crumbling Food Systems in Sudan

The food systems in Sudan heavily rely on local agricultural production, with two-thirds of the population relying on self-sufficient farming. Destruction of agricultural infrastructure and the forced displacement of individuals have halted the population’s ability to plant and harvest, often fleeing to food deserts to escape the violence of civil war. In 2024, reports indicated that many farmers were consuming the grain they would typically use to sow their land to alleviate starvation. The stark economic decline and government-enforced trade restrictions with neighboring countries have further increased food scarcity, driving up the price of food and limiting access. 

More than 8.1 million Sudanese are currently facing emergency levels of famine on the Integrated Food Security Phase Classifications (IPC), meaning households are experiencing large food consumption gaps reflected in higher mortality and acute malnutrition. Cholera cases have also skyrocketed due to a lack of access to clean, safe drinking water. Officials have recorded an estimated 32,000 cases of the illness since the beginning of the year. UNICEF has determined these findings alarming as they come during harvest season, when malnutrition is traditionally at its lowest. Children are the most at risk of health complications from acute malnutrition and cholera, as many have lost their parents or guardians. IPC has warned that authorities must take action now, as observers expect the crisis to deteriorate further due to the rainy season from July to September, which causes hindrances to travel.

Dangerous Humanitarian Conditions

Since the beginning of the conflict, man-made blockades, logistical challenges, lack of security in high-conflict areas and restricted access have disrupted vital humanitarian access. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Food Program (WFP) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) urge a ceasefire in the region and urge world leaders to scale up their spending on humanitarian operations. The cease-fire would allow humanitarian workers to safely reach the five regions currently experiencing famine, and hopefully deter this with an impending threat of spreading to an additional 17 regions in Sudan. The WFP is currently supporting more than 6.5 million Sudanese suffering from food insecurity; however, its operations require an estimated $642 USD to continue until November 2025.

ShareTheMeal, A Smartphone App Fighting Hunger

In 2015, WFP staffers Sebastian Stricker and Bernhard Kowatsch founded ShareTheMeal to make fighting hunger accessible to everyone. The application enables users to crowdfund as little as a donation of $0.80 USD to share a meal, made in their respective currencies and languages, to support WFP’s various humanitarian aid operations. In 2020, ShareTheMeal gained global recognition when it won Google’s App for Good award and Apple’s Making a Difference category. Currently, people have shared more than 250 million meals and contributed to 126 WFP operations. The UN’s micro-donation app is presently spearheading a Sudan initiative to help families fleeing the conflict. Since the conflict escalation in 2023, donations have already reached 98% of the 5 million meals shared goal. These meals are nutritionally focused, featuring rice, flour, vegetable oil, lentils, beans and salt.

Looking Ahead

Despite recent improvements in Sudan, the escalation of violence, the rainy season and the pullback on foreign aid, due to other crises like the famine in Palestine, have created harsher conditions in the third year of this civil war. Humanitarian organizations urge that the quiet famine will continue without the bolstering and continual funding of aid programs, which aim not only to reverse the widespread malnutrition but also to rebuild the inner food systems in Sudan, creating sustainable change.

– Elsa van Blokland

Elsa is based in Quebec, Canada and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr