OPEC Fund supports WFP in addressing food needs in Syria as it recovers from years of conflict

This contribution will support WFP in scaling up its emergency food assistance to reach 1.6 million people monthly across Syria as the country recovers from the effects of more than 14 years of conflict. WFP will provide the most vulnerable families with electronic food vouchers valued at US$65, to support them meet their daily food needs for one month.

The OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa met with WFP on the sidelines of the 2025 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group (WBG) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), reaffirming the OPEC Fund’s commitment to combating global food insecurity and hunger. This follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed between the OPEC Fund and WFP in June 2023.

Syria stands at a pivotal moment in its history following its political transition in December 2024. While prospects are positive, with hope for lasting peace and recovery – bolstered by the lifting of sanctions – many years of conflict have left the country in a dire economic situation and strained public services. More than half of Syria’s population faces food insecurity, with nearly 3 million people projected to be severely food insecure

“Food security is the foundation of lasting peace and recovery,” said Marianne Ward, WFP Syria Country Director. “The OPEC Fund’s support will help us reach families most in need, including those who are returning home and rebuilding their lives, while also revitalizing local economies and creating job opportunities.”

Beyond addressing immediate hunger, electronic food vouchers empower families - especially women - with choice and dignity, while stimulating local markets and strengthening financial systems. Beneficiaries can redeem their vouchers at over 300 contracted retailers across Syria, injecting cash into local communities.

The intervention will prioritize food-insecure households, including internally displaced persons, returnees, and refugees. Special attention will be given to severely food insecure households, such as those including separated or unaccompanied children or people living with disabilities, minor and women-headed households, and families with young children or pregnant and breastfeeding women and girls at risk of malnutrition.

The electronic food voucher programme in 2025 is supported through grants from DG ECHO, the Republic of Korea, and Canada.

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The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

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