THE UNITED NATIONS WORLD FOOD

Published purpose

17 January 2011 - Burma is a food-surplus country with significant agricultural potential. However, unfavourable economic policies, extreme weather and ongoing conflict have resulted in inadequate access to food and persistent hunger in the country. Nationally, 32 percent of children who are under 5 years of age are stunted and underweight. Food insecurity is particularly pronounced in border areas, home to the majority of the country's minorities, who face a variety of restrictions including impediments to trade and movement. Canada's support to this World Food Programme (WFP) operation, which is taking place between January 2010 and December 2012, is helping to meet the food needs of two million beneficiaries in Burma. The work carried out by WFP targets the most vulnerable and food-insecure populations in the country. Activities include food distribution with a focus on mother-and-child health, nutrition activities, and the provision of school meals.