By: Hafizur Rahman
Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh – July 24, 2025
The World Food Programme (WFP), in collaboration with Bangladesh’s Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief (MoDMR), has announced major changes to the food distribution system for Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar. The revisions, effective from August 2025, aim to improve nutrition, eliminate duplication, and maintain critical support amidst ongoing funding constraints.
Key Changes to Food Assistance
1. No Individual Rations for Infants Under 6 Months
Infants younger than six months will no longer receive separate food rations, even if registered under the household data card. WFP clarified that this decision aligns with global health guidelines promoting exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. However, mothers will continue to receive standard food support and nutritional supplements to ensure both maternal and infant health.
“This is not a cutback—it’s a shift in focus toward breastfeeding,” said a WFP nutrition officer. “Support to mothers remains unchanged.”
2. Fortified Biscuits to Be Distributed During School Closures
With learning centers temporarily closed, WFP will begin distributing fortified biscuits alongside general food rations. This aims to replace the lost nutritional benefit children usually receive through school-based feeding programs.
3. Changes to Fresh Food Support for Children Over Two
Children above the age of two who are part of WFP’s nutrition scheme will no longer receive fresh food items (such as eggs and vegetables) as part of the core nutrition basket. However, children aged 24 to 59 months will still be able to access fresh items at Fresh Food Corners (FFCs). General rations for children over six months will continue.
Revisions to Fresh Food Corner Top-Ups
Previously, some individuals received multiple $3 top-up vouchers per month to buy fresh produce from FFCs. To ensure fair distribution, WFP will now allow only one top-up per eligible person per month. This measure is designed to reduce duplication and make limited resources go further.
WFP’s Official Statement
In a letter dated July 15, 2025, Mr. Domenico Scalpelli, WFP’s Bangladesh Country Director, stated:
“These revisions are designed to maintain critical nutritional support while improving efficiency. Pregnant and breastfeeding women will remain a top priority in our malnutrition prevention and treatment services.”
WFP reaffirmed its commitment to promoting exclusive breastfeeding, improved feeding practices, and community-based nutrition education as part of its broader health strategy in the camps.
Call for Community Awareness
Community leaders and camp-based volunteers are being urged to help disseminate this information widely. Clear communication, WFP said, will be essential in ensuring a smooth rollout and avoiding rumors or misunderstandings.
These updates come as humanitarian agencies grapple with ongoing funding shortages while trying to serve the needs of more than one million Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh—many of whom are fully dependent on aid for survival.
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