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UN: Africa Leads Hunger, 2.7 B Can’t Afford Healthy Diet

7/22/2026

38 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

UN said hunger fell to 7.8% in 2025, about 645 million people.
The 2026 report found 2.69 billion cannot afford a healthy diet costing $4.28 PPP daily.
Africa now has the most hungry, about 309 million, surpassing Asia’s 292 million, Torero said.
The report warns the Hormuz crisis could add 8-19 million undernourished people by 2030, with WHO data showing obesity rose to 16.2% in 2024 and the UN’s 2030 zero-hunger goal out of reach.

History

Historical Context

Grain prices surged in 2007-2008, pushing wheat above $10 per bushel and sparking riots across Africa and the Middle East. In April 2008 the World Bank and IMF pledged loans, and UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon formed a task force. The UN’s 2025 State of Food Security report now tracks hunger as policymakers cite the 2008 crisis for market safeguards.

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Story summary

UN said hunger fell to 7.8% in 2025, about 645 million people.
The 2026 report found 2.69 billion cannot afford a healthy diet costing $4.28 PPP daily.
Africa now has the most hungry, about 309 million, surpassing Asia’s 292 million, Torero said.
The report warns the Hormuz crisis could add 8-19 million undernourished people by 2030, with WHO data showing obesity rose to 16.2% in 2024 and the UN’s 2030 zero-hunger goal out of reach.

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