Top 10 Hungriest Countries in the World in 2026 | Countries with Food Insecurity

In 2026, the global food crisis is one of the most urgent humanitarian challenges, with millions facing severe hunger and malnutrition. Factors, including prolonged conflicts, climate change, and economic instability have exacerbated this crisis. 

As countries struggle with political unrest, natural disasters, and inflation, food security remains a significant concern for vulnerable populations worldwide. This is particularly evident in regions  disrupted by ongoing conflicts, severe droughts, and rising food prices that are some of the biggest causes of food insecurity, making it increasingly difficult for families to access sufficient and nutritious food.

In response to the growing hunger crisis, many organizations and communities are coming together to provide immediate relief, healthcare, and long-term sustainable solutions. These efforts are crucial in addressing the widespread suffering caused by food insecurity, especially in the most affected areas.

>> Related Post: Sudan: The World’s Largest Displacement Crisis

Countries Suffering from Global Hunger /Food Crisis in 2026

As of early 2026, the global hunger crisis has reached unprecedented levels, affecting millions worldwide. Recent data underscores the urgency of addressing this escalating issue.

Hunger and Food Insecurity

• Acute Food Insecurity: The World Food Programme (WFP) reports that 343 million people across 74 countries are experiencing acute food insecurity, a 10% increase from the previous year.
• Near-Famine Conditions: Within this group, 1.9 million individuals are on the brink of famine, with regions like Gaza, Sudan, South Sudan, Haiti, and Mali facing catastrophic hunger levels. 

>> Related Post: Top 10 Causes of Food Insecurity: Its Effects and Solutions in 2026

Top 10 Hungriest Countries in the World in 2026

1. Sudan

Primary Drivers: Political instability, conflict, inflation, and displacement

26.6 million people are facing extreme hunger in Sudan, which is currently facing one of the worst hunger crises in the world. Over one-third of the population is living with extreme hunger, and millions of people have been displaced due to the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The destruction of agricultural infrastructure, combined with rising food prices and inflation, has left many families unable to afford even basic nutrition.

2. Yemen

Primary Drivers: Ongoing civil war, blockade, and economic collapse

Above 17 million people in Yemen are facing extreme hunger.  Yemen’s ongoing civil war and the blockade imposed by various factions have devastated the country’s food security. With more than 80% of the population requiring humanitarian assistance, Yemen has become one of the most food-insecure countries in the world. The widespread conflict and destruction of infrastructure have made it difficult for people to access food and clean water, leading to widespread malnutrition and disease outbreaks.

3. Afghanistan

Primary Drivers: Political instability, ongoing conflict, drought, and economic instability

14.8 million people are suffering from Afghanistan’s hunger crisis as a direct result of prolonged conflict, drought, and economic collapse. The country has faced a severe reduction in agricultural output and widespread poverty, making it difficult for many Afghans to access adequate food. Malnutrition rates, particularly among children, have reached alarming levels.

4. South Sudan

Primary Drivers: Conflict, economic instability, and climate change

Almost 7.7 million in South Sudan face ‘crisis’ levels of hunger due to ongoing civil conflict, which has displaced millions and disrupted agricultural production. Coupled with recurring droughts and flooding, these factors have exacerbated food insecurity. Children under the age of five are particularly vulnerable, with many suffering from severe malnutrition.

5. Ethiopia

Primary Drivers: Conflict, drought, and economic instability

Ethiopia is facing a complex humanitarian crisis, with over 20 million people struggling to access food due to conflict and environmental factors like drought. The Tigray conflict and recurrent droughts have led to widespread displacement and food insecurity.

6. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

Primary Drivers: Armed conflict, displacement, and lack of access to markets

Ongoing conflict and political instability in the DRC have displaced millions, disrupting food production and access to markets. A lack of basic infrastructure and healthcare services compounds food insecurity in the DRC. The number of people facing extreme hunger will exceed 28 million by 2025.

7. Somalia

Primary Drivers: Drought, conflict, and poverty

Recurrent droughts, conflict, and ongoing poverty drive Somalia’s hunger crisis. The country’s fragile infrastructure and weak government institutions have made it difficult to address the root causes of hunger. Malnutrition is widespread, particularly among children, and affects  4.4 million people among the total population who are facing extreme food shortages and hunger crises in the state. 

8. Haiti

Primary Drivers: Political instability, economic hardship, and natural disasters

5.4 million are struggling to feed themselves in Haiti. Haiti’s chronic food insecurity has been exacerbated by ongoing political instability and natural disasters like hurricanes. Many Haitians struggle to afford basic food due to economic collapse, and children are particularly vulnerable to malnutrition.

9. Venezuela

Primary Drivers: Economic collapse, inflation, and political instability

In Venezuela, more than 4 million people urgently require food assistance. Venezuela’s economic collapse and hyperinflation have caused widespread food insecurity, with many people unable to afford even basic staples. The country is facing one of the worst economic crises in the region, leading to widespread hunger and malnutrition.

10. Central African Republic (CAR)

Primary Drivers: Armed conflict, instability, and poor infrastructure

CAR continues to face instability due to armed conflict, which has displaced many people and disrupted the food supply. The country suffers from poor infrastructure, making it difficult to address hunger. Around 2 million people are suffering from an extreme hunger crisis in the state.

>> Related Post: Top Poorest Countries in the World in 2026

SAPA’s Efforts to Combat Hunger in Sudan

In the heart of one of the world’s most urgent humanitarian crises, the Sudanese American Physicians Association is leading targeted efforts to fight hunger and save lives. As millions face extreme food insecurity, SAPA’s on-the-ground relief operations are delivering critical support to vulnerable communities across Sudan.

Through strategic partnerships with local organizations and international aid networks, SAPA runs emergency food distribution programs that provide essential supplies and nutritional supplements to displaced families and children at risk of malnutrition. These efforts are not just about immediate relief, they are part of a broader commitment to sustainable, long-term impact. In many areas, SAPA integrates medical assistance and mobile clinics with food aid, ensuring communities receive nourishment and healthcare.

>> Related Post: Best Food Insecurity Charities to Donate to in 2026

Conclusion

The hunger crisis continues to escalate in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions. Every minute, families are being displaced, children are going to bed hungry, and communities are fighting to survive in the face of overwhelming odds.

By supporting SAPA’s hunger relief efforts, you are directly feeding families, protecting children, and offering hope to those with nowhere else to turn. This is your chance to make a real, lasting impact.

FAQs

1. What is SAPA, and what is its mission in Sudan?

SAPA is a nonprofit organization run by Sudanese-American medical professionals. Its mission is to provide healthcare, humanitarian aid, and sustainable support in Sudan. One of its critical focuses is combating hunger through food relief programs, especially for displaced and conflict-affected communities.

2. How does my donation help fight hunger in Sudan?

Your donation directly funds food aid packages, emergency medical services, and community-based relief efforts. For example, $50 can provide meals for 50 families for a day, and $500 can help feed an entire community for a week.

3. Is SAPA a registered nonprofit organization?

Yes, SAPA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in the United States. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.

4. Can I donate from outside the United States?

Absolutely. SAPA accepts international donations through its secure online donation platform. Your support can help feed and support needy families no matter where you’re located.