Urgent Appeal as WFP Egypt Nears Aid Suspension Deadline
The World Food Programme (WFP) in Egypt has issued a stark warning regarding the future of its humanitarian operations, indicating that critical assistance for 250,000 refugees and crisis-affected people could be suspended by March 2026 if no further funding is secured. This potential suspension comes amidst a severe funding shortfall that has already necessitated a reduction in monthly cash assistance to beneficiaries.
Reduced Cash Assistance Impacts Vulnerable Populations
Currently, the WFP provides monthly cash assistance to 250,000 refugees and crisis-affected individuals across Egypt. However, due to the ongoing funding challenges, the value of this assistance has been significantly reduced. Beneficiaries now receive EGP 500 (USD 10) per person, a decrease from the previous amount of EGP 750 (USD 15). This measure was implemented to stretch available resources and prevent an immediate halt to essential aid for the most vulnerable.
The WFP's operations in Egypt are crucial, supporting a diverse refugee population, with over half originating from Syria, and others from countries such as Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea, South Sudan, and Yemen. As of October 2024, Egypt hosts over 792,783 registered refugees, with a significant portion, 63.6 percent, being Sudanese individuals who fled the crisis that erupted in April 2023.
Looming Deadline and Broader Funding Challenges
The prospect of suspending aid by March 2026 underscores the critical nature of the funding gap. The WFP has been grappling with funding shortfalls, with the program anticipating a deficit beginning in January 2026. Earlier reports highlighted the need for at least USD 21 million (EGP 1.064 billion) to sustain operations through the end of 2025, warning of potential suspensions if funds were not secured.
Beyond general food assistance, WFP Egypt also supports other vital programs, including nutrition aid for 5,500 pregnant and breastfeeding refugee women (PBW) with children aged 0-24 months. This assistance is conditional upon their attendance at health check-ups. The organization also implements vocational training for self-reliance and school feeding initiatives.
Humanitarian Impact and Call for Support
The potential suspension of cash assistance would have severe humanitarian consequences, exacerbating food insecurity and vulnerability among hundreds of thousands of people who rely on this aid for their basic needs. The WFP, which has been active in Egypt since 1968, emphasizes that continued international support is vital to prevent a deepening humanitarian crisis.
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