As of early 2026, Mali continues to face a deep nutritional crisis. While there has been long-term incremental progress in reducing chronic malnutrition (stunting), acute malnutrition (wasting) remains at emergency levels, particularly in the conflict-affected northern and central regions. Mali is among six countries at highest risk of famine or catastrophic hunger in early 2026. The UN estimates 5.1 million people are in need.
Because of the conflict there have been more than 800 incidents of access denial of aid to people in need in 2025, which has included violence against aid workers. Mali borders the Sahara desert and is prone to drought and malnutrition.
Acute malnutrition among children nationwide averages 11.6%, which is well above the African regional average of 6%. Within Mali, crises areas include Ménaka (22.2%) and Gao (19.3%), where malnutrition rates have surged far past the WHO’s 15% emergency threshold.
An estimated 1.5 million children are acutely malnourished, with over 314,000 cases of Severe Acute Malnutrition, which is the most life-threatening form.
Militant activity and “blockade tactics” in the North and Center have disrupted local markets and restricted access to agricultural fields, making food both scarce and unaffordable.
See: https://www.fao.org/4/t2860t/t2860t02.htm
