WASHINGTON - I am deeply heartened by the announcement from Qatar that it will contribute US$100 million to humanitarian operations in Yemen, where conflict, COVID and economic decline are driving a grinding hunger crisis which is in danger of slipping into famine without adequate funding. This contribution reinforces the opportunity for regional peace and security.
Qatar's support, part of which will go to WFP, is critical for staving off famine in Yemen and will save millions of lives. I am very encouraged by this latest development in Qatar's partnership with WFP and my sincere thanks go to the government and people of Qatar for this much-needed expression of solidarity.
Right now, two thirds of Yemen's population - some 20 million people - need humanitarian assistance with five million at immediate risk of famine. Acute malnutrition is eating away the futures of 2.3 million children and 400,000 are at risk of dying if left without treatment
The international community must not wait for a famine classification in Yemen to act, as Qatar is doing now joining other donors who have generously stepped up to support WFP's operation in the war-torn country. People do not start dying when a declaration of famine is made. It is their deaths that trigger a declaration.
WFP supports 12.9 million in Yemen with emergency food assistance and provides special foods to treat and prevent malnutrition to 3.3 million children and mothers. To prevent famine in Yemen, WFP needs at least US$1.9 billion in 2021. Not including Qatar, donors have stepped up with just over $1 billion so far this year.
