Sudan’s deepening hunger crisis could worsen as the United Nations World Food Programme warns that a strengthening El Niño threatens to intensify food shortages across vulnerable regions.
The agency said the climate-driven weather pattern could push an additional 49 million people into acute hunger by the end of 2027, adding pressure to fragile populations.
Global food insecurity across 45 struggling countries is projected to rise from 225 million to 274 million people as floods, droughts and extreme temperatures disrupt livelihoods.
Acting Executive Director Carl Skau warned that escalating climate shocks are pushing vulnerable communities closer to the brink, with harvests and incomes increasingly under threat.
Forecasters expect El Niño to peak later this year, with widespread agricultural disruption likely to continue throughout next year across several regions.
Latin America and southern Africa are expected to suffer the greatest impacts, while eastern Africa, including Sudan, and parts of Asia also face significant risks.
The World Food Programme has activated anticipatory emergency plans in six countries, providing financial assistance to about 500,000 people before conditions deteriorate further.
Officials said every dollar invested in climate preparedness can save up to seven dollars in future losses, underscoring the value of early action.
