More than half of Jamaicans are facing food insecurity. Meanwhile, 28% are experiencing severe hunger, according to food security expert Dr. Cecil Cornwall.

Cornwall shared the figures on Tuesday. He spoke at the launch of the 10th International Food Security and Sovereignty Conference.

According to Cornwall, 55% of Jamaicans face uncertainty about having enough food. For example, some people run out of food or skip meals.

However, the situation is worse for many others. Cornwall said 28% face severe food insecurity. As a result, they may go hungry or spend an entire day without eating.

Jamaica is also facing pressure from high food prices and extreme weather. In addition, the country continues to deal with the effects of Hurricane Melissa.

The Category 5 hurricane struck Jamaica in October 2025. St. Elizabeth, known as the country’s breadbasket, was among the hardest-hit areas. Farms, homes, and livelihoods suffered major damage.

After the storm, the World Food Programme worked with the Jamaican government to provide emergency assistance. Initially, food distributions reached about 123,000 people across four parishes.

The programme later expanded. Another 50,000 people severely affected by the hurricane received cash assistance. This included households in Hanover.

Jamaica had already faced agricultural challenges before Hurricane Melissa. In July 2024, Hurricane Beryl also caused major damage to homes and livelihoods. Subsequently, more than 14,000 people received cash assistance.

Meanwhile, the Jamaican government is working to improve food security. It is rolling out a US$50 million agriculture and resilience programme. The initiative aims to help the sector withstand climate-related shocks.

Globally, hunger also remains a major concern. The UN estimates that about 645 million people experienced hunger in 2025. However, progress toward ending hunger remains uneven.

Jamaica’s food security challenges will be discussed next week. The International Food Security and Sovereignty Conference will take place on September 9 and 10.

The event will bring together farmers, researchers, policymakers, and development partners. Together, they will discuss sustainable agriculture, food sovereignty, and stronger food systems.