The United Nations has issued a warning about a growing malnutrition crisis in the Middle East and North Africa, impacting one-third of children in the region.
UNICEF reported that at least 77 million children in these areas suffer from some form of malnutrition.
Among these children, 55 million are overweight or obese, which UNICEF also classifies as malnutrition.
Additionally, 24 million children face undernutrition challenges, including stunting, wasting, and thinness, indicating widespread health issues.
This worsening crisis is largely attributed to inadequate nutrition, lack of access to healthy food, clean water, and essential services, along with the availability of cheap, unhealthy foods.
Political instability, conflict, and rising food prices further compound the problem.
UNICEF’s regional director, Adele Khodr, emphasized that only a third of young children receive proper nutrition.
She expressed concern that these statistics could worsen due to ongoing regional conflicts and economic challenges.
UNICEF is urging governments to prioritize nutrition in their policies and planning.
Recent reports highlighted that global hunger affected around nine percent of the population in 2023, with 733 million people experiencing hunger due to persistent crises.
