Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue has today (Thursday, March 14) announced Irish funding of €105 million for the United Nations (UN) World Food Programme (WFP) for 2025 to 2027.
The funding pledge is a 40% increase on the funding made under the previous three-year period and will directly fund the WFP’s humanitarian work globally.
The funding will be provided by the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine (DAFM) which is the lead government department in Ireland for engagement with the WFP.
Minister McConalogue made the announcement in Kenya where he is currently leading an international development mission to the Horn of Africa.
World Food Programme
Minister McConalogue explained that the increased funding will be made under a new strategic partnership agreement with the World Food Programme for the next three years.
“This represents our highest-ever contribution and confirms Ireland’s commitment to fighting world hunger, in conjunction with WFP.
“Yesterday, I had the humbling privilege of speaking with some of the 200,000 refugees in the UN refugee camp in Kakuma and Kalobeyei, northwestern Kenya.
“Due to WFP funding shortages, these camps are receiving a reduced ration, amounting to less than the minimum recommended food basket,” he said.
Minister McConalogue said that Ireland recognises the impact that conflict and climate change are having on food security and nutrition.
“Our increased funding will enable WFP globally to continue to respond to crisis-affected refugees while also working to build resilience and community integration,” he added.
World Food Programme executive director Cindy McCain welcomed the increased funding from Ireland.
“Their steadfast support and recognition of the critical role WFP plays in alleviating global hunger demonstrates Ireland’s firm commitment to assisting the world’s most vulnerable people,” she said.