25.6 Million People in the DR Congo Face Severe Hunger Crisis Amid Ongoing Conflicts

The latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) analysis highlights a severe hunger crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Between July and December 2024, approximately 25.6 million people, or about 22 percent of the country's population, are facing severe food insecurity. This includes around 3.1 million individuals who are experiencing critical hunger levels (IPC Phase 4), on the brink of famine. Forecasts for early 2025 suggest that, without immediate intervention, this crisis is likely to continue and worsen, exacerbating the struggles of millions.

The food security situation remains critical for millions of people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), according to Rein Paulsen, Director of FAO's Office of Emergencies and Resilience. Armed violence and competition for resources have severely impacted rural livelihoods and infrastructure, disrupting essential agricultural production. Given the scale of this crisis, even a minor shock, like rising food prices or a poor harvest, could push even more people to the brink. Ending hostilities, restoring local food production, and supporting rural families in building resilience and improving productivity are essential steps to reversing these grim trends.

A new report from FAO’s Data in Emergencies underscores the gravity of the situation, especially in the country’s eastern regions, where ongoing conflict has hit agricultural livelihoods hard. Compared to last year, an estimated 25 percent of livestock keepers reported losing animals, and 35 percent of farming households were forced to cultivate on reduced land. These declines, compounded by insecurity, have greatly reduced food availability, intensifying the cycle of poverty and hunger.

While international aid efforts are underway, the scale of this crisis necessitates a collaborative global response focused on both immediate food relief and long-term agricultural support.