The UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) has rapidly mobilized emergency relief efforts in Myanmar following a devastating earthquake, but ongoing conflict and insufficient funding are severely hindering the humanitarian response.
Speaking from Mandalay, near the quake’s epicenter, WFP Country Director Michael Dunford described scenes of widespread devastation. “As you drive through the streets, the scale of destruction becomes immediately clear,” he said. “You hear heartbreaking stories that underscore the urgent need for the international community to step in—and fast.”
With critical shortages of food, shelter, and medical supplies, Dunford emphasized the necessity of increased financial support. “Without funding, we simply cannot respond adequately. We cannot meet the urgent needs of Myanmar’s people,” he warned.
In an interview with UN News, Dunford detailed the immense obstacles aid workers and survivors now face. He cited not only the earthquake’s destruction but also the compounded challenges of Myanmar’s long-running internal conflict.
Emergency Response Underway
Dunford was in Nay Pyi Taw when the earthquake struck and recounted the terrifying experience: “We were under a table, praying the roof wouldn’t collapse.” WFP launched initial food distributions in the capital within 48 hours and has since extended operations to heavily impacted areas such as Sagaing and Mandalay.
Driving through Sagaing, the quake’s epicenter, Dunford witnessed the damage firsthand. “Buildings have collapsed, infrastructure is badly disrupted, and people are emotionally devastated,” he said.
He described visiting a feeding site where WFP was supporting survivors from a mosque that had collapsed. “Many had lost loved ones—the primary wage earners in their families,” he said. “The stories are heartbreaking, and they highlight just how vital a swift international response is.”
Ongoing Aftershocks and Rising Fear
Aftershocks continue to rattle the region, deepening fears among residents. Dunford described an additional tremor that caused panic at a WFP distribution site. “People dropped to the ground in fear. Everyone is on edge.”
He also confirmed reports of two hotels collapsing in Mandalay due to aftershocks, leading to new fatalities. Fear of further building collapses has driven many people to sleep outdoors in parks and streets, complicating efforts to deliver aid.
Relief Priorities and Coordination
WFP is prioritizing food and nutrition, while also preparing to lead logistics operations and potentially coordinate emergency telecommunications. However, Dunford stressed that needs extend far beyond what WFP can provide alone—health services, water and sanitation (WASH), and shelter are all in urgent demand.
International and local collaboration is essential. WFP is working closely with fellow UN agencies including UNICEF, WHO, UNHCR, and OCHA, and coordinating with national and local NGOs that understand the local context.
“These local organizations are critical because they know the people we’re trying to help,” Dunford explained. “It’s a collective effort, and a difficult one, especially given Myanmar’s pre-existing humanitarian crisis.”
A Crisis Within a Crisis
Myanmar was already facing widespread humanitarian challenges due to ongoing conflict and political instability. At the beginning of the year, WFP estimated over 19 million people were in need of assistance, with 15 million suffering from acute food insecurity, and 3.5 million internally displaced.
Dunford explained that the conflict not only exacerbates vulnerability but also obstructs relief efforts. “We’re calling for a ceasefire—at the very least during this period—to allow humanitarian operations to proceed without interference.”
WFP continues to push for unrestricted access to affected areas so that needs assessments and aid distribution can be carried out effectively.
Funding Shortfalls Threaten Relief Operations
Even before the earthquake, WFP and other agencies were facing severe funding shortages. With major donors—including the United States—reducing contributions, the situation has become critical.
“Without sufficient funding, our operations will be forced to scale down,” Dunford said. “We were in a meeting discussing potential cutbacks when the earthquake struck. Now, the stakes are even higher.”
Impact on UN Staff
Dunford expressed relief that no WFP staff or their direct family members had been seriously injured in the quake. But he acknowledged the grief felt across the country. “Thousands have lost loved ones. The reported death toll is nearing 3,000, and there are fears it could reach 10,000. Every number represents a real person, a grieving family.”
Reflecting on the compounded toll of the earthquake and years of conflict, Dunford described the situation in Myanmar as “a tragedy layered upon tragedy.”
How to Help
Dunford’s message to the international community was clear: funding is urgently needed. “We have the capacity to deliver life-saving aid, but without resources, we’re handicapped. Myanmar’s people need help now—every hour matters.”
Listen to the full interview on UN News for more insights from the front lines of the crisis.
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