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UN World Food Programme Shuts Johannesburg Office Amid Trump Aid Cuts, Moves Operations to Nairobi

In a significant move driven by funding constraints, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has announced the closure of its Southern Africa regional bureau in Johannesburg. The decision comes as the Trump administration continues to slash foreign aid budgets, impacting life-saving programs worldwide. The WFP’s operations in Southern Africa will now be consolidated and managed from its Nairobi office.
The WFP, which relies heavily on U.S. funding, faces an uncertain financial future. Last year, the U.S. contributed 4.5billiontotheagency’s9.8 billion budget, making it the single largest donor. However, President Donald Trump’s “America First” agenda has led to drastic cuts in foreign aid, including a reduction of more than 90% in contracts with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and over $58 billion in global assistance.
Funding Cuts Hit Hard Amid Climate Crises
The timing of these cuts couldn’t be worse. Southern Africa is grappling with the dual crises of drought and floods. Last year, an El Niño-induced drought forced countries like Lesotho, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Namibia to declare national disasters. Since January, devastating floods have further compounded the region’s challenges, leaving millions in need of urgent food assistance.
Tomson Phiri, WFP’s regional spokesperson, emphasized that the closure of the Johannesburg office is a cost-saving measure aimed at maximizing resources for front-line operations. “The goal is to stretch every dollar and target maximum resources to our front-line teams,” he said. Phiri assured that the move would not affect country-level operations in Southern Africa, where the WFP continues to provide critical food and cash assistance.
Consolidation to Nairobi
The consolidation of operations in Nairobi is expected to streamline the WFP’s efforts across Eastern and Southern Africa. The agency has long operated in Nairobi, which serves as a hub for its African initiatives. By centralizing operations, the WFP hopes to improve efficiency and reduce overhead costs, ensuring that more funds are directed toward those in need.
Despite these efforts, the WFP is already facing a funding shortfall. Last year, the agency raised only one-fifth of the funds required to address the drought crisis in Southern Africa. The recent aid cuts further exacerbate the situation, leaving vulnerable populations at risk.
Impact on Local Procurement
The WFP also highlighted that over 60% of the food it procures is used within the region where it is purchased. This approach not only supports local economies but also ensures timely delivery of aid. However, with reduced funding, the agency’s ability to sustain these efforts is under threat.
A Global Call to Action
The closure of the Johannesburg office underscores the broader impact of U.S. aid cuts on global humanitarian efforts. As climate change intensifies, the need for robust international cooperation and funding has never been greater. The WFP’s decision to consolidate operations is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by organizations striving to combat hunger and poverty in an era of shrinking resources.
In the face of these challenges, the WFP remains committed to its mission. But without increased support from the international community, the agency’s ability to respond to crises will be severely compromised. As Southern Africa battles the devastating effects of drought and floods, the world must not turn its back on those in need.
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