Online Reporter
Theseus Shambare
The Government of Japan has availed a US$1,3 million food assistance initiative aimed at vulnerable communities in the country during the 2024/2025 lean season.
The Government of Japan will provide the assistance through the World Food Programme (WFP). The Japanese Government and WFP on Wednesday signed the agreement for the “Providing Unconditional Humanitarian Food Transfers to Food Insecure People in Targeted Areas” project.
Speaking after the signing ceremony, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Deputy Minister Mercy Dinha, who was representing the Government, said the initiative was a milestone in Zimbabwe’s efforts to address hunger while moving towards self sufficiency.
“Japan’s generous contribution will greatly support our efforts to address food insecurity,” she said.
“By empowering our communities to become more self sufficient, we can reduce their reliance on external aid and create a more sustainable future for all Zimbabweans. With partnerships like this, we are one step closer to achieving our vision of a prosperous and resilient Zimbabwe.”
Japan’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Shinichi Yamanaka, said the funding will provide food baskets of maize, millet, sorghum, vegetable oil and pulses to about 32 000 people.
“Our assistance today comes in response to the growing food insecurity affecting communities during the 2024/2025 lean season,” he said.
“Japan stands in solidarity with Zimbabwe, and through this partnership, we hope to alleviate immediate needs while contributing to long term food security.”
WFP Zimbabwe’s country director Barbara Clemens said the lean season is the most difficult period for rural households, with many forced to reduce meals or sell vital assets.
“This contribution will help us prevent those outcomes and provide a much needed safety net,” she said.
“Today’s contribution is more than a handout; it is a hand extended in partnership — meeting immediate needs while building long term resilience.”
Officials at the ceremony said the programme also aligns with Zimbabwe’s broader goal of reducing donor dependency through climate resilient, sustainable agricultural development.
Online Reporter