Japan has contributed $1.75 million to the World Food Programme (WFP) to address the problem of food insecurity and help vulnerable communities in Malawi.
With this support, WFP is expected to procure, transport and distribute 786 metric tonnes 9mt) of maize, reaching 71,000 vulnerable people.
Japan Ambassador to Malawi Yoichi Oya made the announcement at an event held in Lilongwe Monday.
Government of Malawi representatives were in attendance.
“Japan remains committed to supporting Malawi’s efforts to overcome food insecurity and foster sustainable development,” he said.
Oya added that they were committed to ensuring that the country met its development goals.
“By addressing immediate needs and investing in agricultural export capacity, we aim to contribute to a brighter future for Malawians,” Oya said.
The funding will support national efforts to provide food assistance during the lean season, which is expected to be particularly challenging due to recent back-to-back emergencies.
“This support reflects the strong partnership between Japan and Malawi. It will provide life-saving food assistance while also helping the country build long-term food security and economic opportunities,” said Simon Denhere, WFP Malawi Country Director.
These efforts support vulnerable communities who face severe food insecurity due to consecutive climate shocks, including Tropical Cyclone Freddy (March 2023), and the El Niño-induced drought last year.
According to a WFP News Release, the aid is for vulnerable communities, who are expected to recover from natural disasters and enhance local agricultural export capacity.
Malawi’s Commissioner for Disaster Management Affairs Charles Kalemba said the Government of Malawi appreciated Japan’s support in strengthening the national response to food insecurity.
‘This timely gesture complements government’s efforts in providing much-needed relief to vulnerable communities affected by climate shocks while boosting our national food stocks,” Kalemba said.
Beyond emergency relief, Japan is investing $1 million in scaling up Malawi’s sesame export capacity.
In partnership with WFP, the Malawi Bureau of Standards will improve certification, testing and quarantine capabilities to meet international standards.
The initiative includes training, facility upgrades and technical collaboration to boost export opportunities for smallholder farmers in the country.
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