48 million people are currently facing food insecurity in West and Central Africa, spurred by COVID-19, climate change, the war in Ukraine, and long-term instability. One step away from famine, the region is experiencing its highest level of food insecurity in a decade. The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) plans to provide $2 billion in life-saving assistance to support people. Yet, Africa should focus on building stronger food systems and more diversified supply chains to limit similar crises in the long term.

Key Judgement 1: The current assistance is unlikely to be sufficient to curb the hunger crisis in the next 12 months.

Key Judgement 2: A whole-of-the-society approach is likely more efficient to cope with food insecurity in the region in the next 12 months.

Key Judgement 3: Structural and institutional changes are highly likely to be necessary to enhance the region’s resilience in the next 12 months.