For years, hunger has been a painful reality in many parts of Africa. But the latest UN Hunger Hotspots Report (June to October 2025) offers a bit of good news: some African countries are no longer considered hunger “hotspots.” 

While this doesn’t mean the problem is completely gone, it shows progress especially in places where things once seemed hopeless.

The Countries Making Progress

According to the report, countries in East and Southern Africa are showing major improvements, thanks in part to better weather conditions. These countries include:

• Ethiopia
• Kenya
• Lesotho
• Malawi
• Mozambique
• Namibia
• Zambia
• Zimbabwe
• Niger in West Africa has also made the list

These nations were previously at risk of severe hunger, but they are now seeing some relief. Rainfall has improved in many areas, helping with farming and food supply. 

However, the report warns that these gains are fragile as future droughts, conflicts, or economic issues could turn things around quickly.

Ethiopia: A Break After Years of Crisis

Ethiopia, once the face of Africa’s hunger crisis due to both drought and conflict (especially in the Tigray region), is beginning to recover. The return of seasonal rains in some areas has made farming easier and food a little more available. 

Still, not all regions are doing well. Places like eastern Amhara and Afar received less rain than needed. Food prices remain high, and many families still struggle to afford enough to eat.

Malawi: Prices Still Too High

Malawi is also off the hunger hotspot list, but life remains hard for many. After a poor harvest in 2024 caused by El Niño weather patterns, maize prices skyrocketed.

 Even with the 2025 harvest helping a bit, food remains expensive. Nearly 5.7 million people, about 28% of the population, faced serious food shortages earlier this year.

Mozambique: Violence Still a Problem

In Mozambique, hunger isn’t as widespread as before, but danger still lurks. Armed violence in the northern region of Cabo Delgado continues to disrupt farming and food access. 

Many people can’t return to their homes or farms, making it hard to earn a living or grow their own food.

What you should know

While these countries are showing signs of recovery, the situation is far from perfect. Hunger hasn’t disappeared, it’s just not at its worst in these areas right now. People in many regions still face high food prices, unpredictable weather, and economic struggles. 

The UN report reminds us that without continued support and stable conditions, the hunger crisis could easily return.

At the same time, the contrast is clear. In other parts of the world like South Sudan, Sudan, Haiti, Mali, and Palestine, the hunger crisis is worsening due to war, disasters, and economic collapse. These places remain at the top of the UN’s emergency list.

The progress in countries like Ethiopia, Kenya, and Malawi is a sign that hunger doesn’t have to be permanent. With the right support, improved weather, and better policies, change is possible.