Michael Gwarisa
World Food Programme Executive Director Cindy McCain has announced that she is stepping down from her role, citing health reasons after three years at the helm of the global humanitarian agency.
In an official statement, McCain said the decision was taken with deep personal difficulty, describing her time leading the WFP as the honor of a lifetime.
“With a heavy heart, I am announcing my intention to step down as the Executive Director of the World Food Programme. Serving this incredible organisation has been the honour of a lifetime,” she said.
McCain highlighted WFP’s life-saving work in some of the world’s most dangerous and hard-to-reach settings, praising staff who continue to deliver assistance despite extreme risks and logistical challenges.
“I’ve seen firsthand WFP’s ability to save lives in the most dangerous, destitute, and remote locations of the world, where people need us the most,” she said, adding that she had hoped to complete her term but was no longer physically able to meet the demands of the role.
Over the past three years, WFP has delivered life-saving and life-changing assistance to millions of vulnerable people affected by conflict, climate shocks, and economic crises. McCain said the organization’s mission would remain more critical than ever in the coming years, as global hunger levels continue to rise.
She expressed gratitude to donors, partners, and WFP staff worldwide for their continued commitment, and pledged to remain a strong advocate for the fight against hunger.
“I will remain WFP’s biggest champion and continue to be an unwavering voice for those struggling with hunger everywhere,” she said.
