from MARIA MACHARIA in Nairobi, Kenya
Kenya Bureau
NAIROBI, (CAJ News) – MAUREEN Magee, Global Director of Field Operations at the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), warns that the 2026 Global Humanitarian Overview paints a stark picture of a system pushed to its limits.
“Humanitarian responses will be under unprecedented strain as we confront soaring needs across multiple, overlapping crises. Next year, 239 million people will require humanitarian assistance and protection, yet current plans aim to reach barely half.
Without renewed global solidarity, millions enduring protracted emergencies—from the Democratic Republic of Congo to Myanmar and Syria—will be left without lifesaving support.”
Magee noted that deep cuts to humanitarian budgets in 2025, particularly from the United States and Europe, created the largest funding shortfall in recent memory.
“Tens of millions were left without the help they urgently needed. In 2026, these cuts will be even more visible on the frontlines. This trajectory is indefensible.”
She highlighted that many of the world’s most neglected emergencies are intensifying. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces one of the world’s longest and most brutal conflicts, with mass displacement, chronic insecurity, and cyclical epidemics.
Sudan is in the midst of a devastating war pushing millions into famine-like conditions, while South Sudan continues to grapple with flooding, conflict, and economic collapse.
Across the Sahel, including Mali and Niger, violence, political instability, and climate shocks have uprooted communities and shattered basic services.
In Mozambique, conflict in Cabo Delgado and recurrent natural disasters continue to drive large-scale displacement.
Magee stressed that only a dual approach—meeting urgent needs while addressing root causes—can prevent the humanitarian system from breaking down completely.
“We must focus resources on those facing the most severe needs while simultaneously scaling long-term development solutions that reduce the drivers of crises.”
She noted that NRC continues prioritising hard-to-reach communities and supporting families to rebuild their lives, citing examples from Mozambique, Nigeria, and Jordan.
“We cannot abandon hope,” she concluded. “But 2026 must mark a renewed commitment to global solidarity. Governments, businesses, and citizens alike must step forward so that no one is left behind.”
– CAJ News