UNICEF warns of rising stunting rates among Yemeni children and calls for investment in nutrition initiatives.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has reported a troubling increase in stunting rates among children under the age of two in Yemen, particularly within impoverished families. In a post shared on its official X account on Tuesday, UNICEF highlighted that over 60% of children in this age group suffer from stunting. The organization emphasized that “investing in nutrition can break the cycle of poverty.”

Highest Stunting Rates Found in Al-Raimah Governorate

UNICEF identified Al-Raimah Governorate, controlled by Houthi forces, as the region with the highest stunting rates in the country. A staggering 69% of children in this governorate experience stunting, marking it as the most affected area in Yemen.

Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen

The organization explained that families in Al-Raimah face significant challenges in accessing basic necessities such as food, clean water, and medicine. This situation exacerbates the ongoing humanitarian crisis that residents in these areas endure. The prolonged conflict, which has persisted for over a decade, has severely impacted the well-being of children and families alike.

The Importance of Nutritional Investment

UNICEF’s findings underscore the urgent need for investment in nutrition as a critical strategy to combat poverty and improve child health in Yemen. By addressing malnutrition, the organization believes that communities can begin to break free from the cycle of hardship and build a healthier future for their children.

In conclusion, the alarming stunting rates among Yemeni children highlight the pressing need for humanitarian assistance and nutritional support. As the situation continues to evolve, UNICEF calls for immediate action to address these critical issues.

To follow the news in Arabic