The United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, has warned world leaders that food has become a weapon in various conflicts around the globe. Speaking to the UN Security Council, Mohammed stated that armed conflict and violence are the primary causes of food insecurity in most of the world’s hunger hotspots. She emphasized that the deliberate destruction of agricultural systems and starvation tactics are having a global impact.

According to Mohammed, 295 million people faced acute hunger last year, a significant increase of 14 million from the previous year. The UN deputy chief criticized countries for investing in military expenditure rather than addressing hunger. She specifically mentioned Gaza, Sudan, and Yemen as countries with high levels of acute food insecurity.

The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has declared famine in Gaza and in the Sudanese cities of El-Fasher and Kadugli. The African Union Special Envoy for Food Systems described Africa as the “epicentre of global hunger,” despite the continent holding 60 percent of the world’s arable land and having the greatest potential for innovation in sustainable agriculture.

Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio emphasized the need for solidarity to unlock Africa’s potential to feed itself and the world. He stressed that what is needed is not sympathy, but action to address hunger in conflict. UN representatives also underlined the importance of humanitarian aid to prevent and address hunger in conflict.

The situation in Africa is particularly concerning, with the continent facing significant challenges in addressing hunger and food insecurity. The African Union has called for increased support to address the root causes of hunger and to promote sustainable agriculture. The international community has been urged to take action to address the global hunger crisis, which is having a devastating impact on millions of people around the world.

The use of food as a weapon in conflict is a serious concern, and the international community must take action to prevent and address hunger in conflict. The UN has called for increased investment in sustainable agriculture and humanitarian aid to address the global hunger crisis. The situation in Africa and other regions affected by conflict and hunger requires urgent attention and action to ensure that millions of people have access to food and nutrition.