A year after Mexico’s “tortilla riots” global food prices are continuing to rise. WFP Executive Director Josette Sheeran has said that without additional contributions, WFP will be able to reach fewer people.
A year after Mexico’s “tortilla riots” global food prices are continuing to rise. WFP Executive Director Josette Sheeran has said that without additional contributions, WFP will be able to reach fewer people.
KEY POINTS
1. Last year, WFP estimated it would need US$2.9 billion to cover 2008 project needs. Soaring food and fuel prices now means it needs at least half a billion dollars more than it had anticipated.
2. The new estimated figure to cover 2008 projects is US$3.4 billion. This would not cover funding for any unforeseen emergency operations.
3. WFP has approved projects to feed 73 million in 78 countries in 2008.
4. Current price rises mean that the world’s poorest people will have to spend a larger proportion of their income on food. This may mean they will buy less food, or food that is less nutritious, or they may have to rely on outside help to fulfil their nutritional needs.
5. Countries where price rises are expected to have a direct impact include Zimbabwe, Eritrea, Haiti, Djibouti, the Gambia, Tajikistan, Togo, Chad, Benin, Myanmar, Cameroon, Niger, Senegal, Yemen and Cuba.
