Staff Writer
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) received US$1.4 million from Japan to support approximately 26,000 Zimbabweans affected by the ongoing El Niño-induced drought.
Over 5.9 million people in rural parts of Zimbabwe are at risk of food insecurity between January and March 2025, the peak of the lean season, the period between planting and harvest.
“The government of Japan and the Embassy of Japan in Zimbabwe are very concerned about the food insecurity in Zimbabwe,” the Japanese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Shinichi Yamanaka said.
“I hope that this food assistance will help these vulnerable people to overcome the current crisis. We will continue our support to allow all Zimbabweans to meet their food security needs.”
With this contribution, WFP will provide cereals, pulses, and vegetable oil to vulnerable communities in the hardest-hit areas impacted by the previous poor harvest due to the drought.
“Many families around Zimbabwe are worried about their next meal, so this timely and critical additional funding from the Government of Japan will help us reach the most food insecure people with nutritious food assistance,” WFP Zimbabwe Deputy Country Director Billy Mwiinga said.
“We are grateful for Japan’s unwavering partnership in our mission to end hunger and contribute to building resilience.”
Through the Lean Season Assistance, WFP supports the government’s Food Deficit Mitigation Strategy, which protects the most vulnerable individuals from worsening food insecurity.
“The declaration of a state of disaster by His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, underscores the severity of the drought situation in Zimbabwe,” Minister of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare July Moyo said.
“We deeply appreciate the support from Japan and the collaborative efforts with WFP to ensure that no one is left behind during these difficult times.”
