Staff Writer
The World Food Programme (WFP) received a US$1 million contribution from the Republic of Korea to address Zimbabwe’s pressing food insecurity crisis.
The donation will provide essential nutritional support to 22,000 people affected by the El Niño-induced drought, which has exacerbated food shortages across the country.
An estimated 5.9 million rural Zimbabweans and 1.7 million urban residents are expected to face food insecurity during the upcoming lean season, a period of scarcity between harvests.
The Korean government’s timely intervention will significantly bolster WFP’s efforts to alleviate hunger and ensure that vulnerable households have access to the necessary food and nutrition.
“Korea shares the concern on the recent food insecurity due to drought in Zimbabwe,” Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Zimbabwe Park Jae Kyung said.
“We recognise the hardships faced by the people of Zimbabwe brought about by El Niño and the importance of swift and effective assistance to the people in need to ensure no one is left behind. Our contribution reaffirms our ongoing partnership with the government of Zimbabwe and WFP in building food security and resilience for vulnerable communities.”
The donated funds will be utilised through WFP’s Lean Season Assistance (LSA) program, which complements the Zimbabwean government’s efforts to mitigate food deficits.
“In the face of this enormous challenge, the Republic of Korea has demonstrated its commitment to helping Zimbabwe during difficult times,” WFP Deputy Country Director in Zimbabwe Billy Mwiinga said.
“The contribution will help WFP reach the most vulnerable individuals, ensuring they have the essential food and nutritional support needed to survive the lean season. This is not just about providing food assistance it’s about guaranteeing dignity and hope during a time of immense hardship.”
The Minister of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare, July Moyo, acknowledged the importance of partnerships in responding to the country’s growing food insecurity challenges.
“This generous contribution from the Republic of Korea comes at a critical time and will substantially enhance our capacity to provide essential support to those most affected by the El Niño-induced drought, helping us to build a more resilient and food-secure future for all Zimbabweans,” Moyo said.
As Zimbabwe continues to experience the effects of climate variability, WFP said it remains committed to supporting the government’s response to food insecurity through both emergency assistance and long-term resilience-building initiatives.
