Addressing the Escalating Crisis of Acute Malnutrition in Yemen
As the world continues to grapple with various crises, the situation in Yemen remains dire, especially for vulnerable children who are facing a surge in acute malnutrition. According to the UN Children’s Fund, UNICEF, acute malnutrition is rapidly increasing in Government of Yemen-controlled areas, with the West Coast experiencing “extremely critical” levels for the first time.
The latest findings from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) Technical Working Group in Yemen paint a grim picture. Diseases, high food insecurity, and limited access to safe drinking water are major factors driving up acute malnutrition among vulnerable children.
Shockingly, the number of children under the age of five suffering from acute malnutrition has risen by 34% compared to the previous year across Government of Yemen-controlled areas, affecting over 600,000 children. Among them, 120,000 children are severely malnourished.
Various factors have contributed to this sharp rise, including disease outbreaks such as cholera and measles, high food insecurity, limited access to safe drinking water, and economic decline. Additionally, around 223,000 pregnant and lactating women were found to be acutely malnourished in 2024.
The situation has reached an alarming level, with extremely critical acute malnutrition reported in areas where the prevalence exceeds 30%. In Hodeidah and Taizz lowlands, the prevalence of acute malnutrition has soared, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.
UNICEF Representative to Yemen, Peter Hawkins, emphasizes the need for immediate action to protect the most vulnerable women, girls, and boys. He stresses, “An investment in and scale-up of prevention and treatment efforts are more critical than ever.”
The escalating crisis of acute malnutrition in Yemen demands a concerted global response to ensure the well-being of the most vulnerable populations. Together, we can make a difference and save lives.
(Source: UNICEF)
