China hands over 3 000 tonnes of rice, wheat to Zim

Theseus Shambare

CHINA has handed over 3 000 tonnes of rice and wheat to Zimbabwe, strengthening ongoing humanitarian support to vulnerable communities affected by drought and food insecurity.

The donation was officially handed over at the Aspindale Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depot in Harare today, with Deputy Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Mercy Dinha and Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Zhou Ding leading the event.

“This is the second batch of food assistance we have donated since President Mnangagwa declared a national disaster following the El Niño-induced drought,” said Ambassador Zhou.

“Yesterday, I signed the third batch, and last year we handed over the first batch at State House. In total, China has provided 20 batches of food aid to Zimbabwe over the past 20 years.”

He added that the donation was more than just humanitarian assistance: “It is about partnership and working together on food security.

“China remains committed to helping Zimbabwe achieve lasting food security and poverty reduction.”

Deputy Minister Dinha expressed gratitude on behalf of the Government.

“We are thankful to the Chinese government and people for this generous support — 1 500 tonnes of rice and 750 tonnes of wheat, with another 750 tonnes still on the way,” she said.

She said the food would be distributed to those most in need.

“This consignment will go a long way in supporting vulnerable citizens, including persons with disabilities, child-headed families and the elderly — especially in hard-to-reach areas.”

The donation is part of broader efforts to mitigate the impact of climate-induced food shortages in Zimbabwe.