Key Points
- Korea has donated $1 million to support food assistance in Shurugwi.
- The aid will help over 46,000 people during Zimbabwe’s lean season.
- WFP’s wider programme targets more than 985,000 people across nine districts.
Thousands of families in Shurugwi, Zimbabwe, have received crucial food assistance as part of the World Food Programme’s (WFP) Lean Season Assistance (LSA) programme.
The support follows a $1 million donation from the government of Korea, aimed at helping vulnerable communities navigate the ongoing food crisis.
Timely support for families in need
The food distribution event, held recently in Gundura, brought together representatives from the Zimbabwean government, the Korean embassy, WFP, and community members. For many in Shurugwi, the aid comes at a critical time.
Korean Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Jae Kyung Par, expressed his country’s commitment to supporting Zimbabwe during difficult times.
“This assistance was made possible through our collaboration with WFP and the Zimbabwean government. We hope this contribution helps ease the burden of food insecurity in Shurugwi,” said Par.
Reaching thousands across Shurugwi
With Korea’s funding, WFP is providing food assistance to over 46,000 people in Shurugwi.
The initiative is part of a larger effort, with WFP’s LSA programme aiming to support more than 985,000 people across nine districts in Zimbabwe.
Beneficiaries receive a balanced food basket containing cereals, pulses, and vegetable oil to ensure access to nutritious meals during the lean season.
Barbara Clemens, WFP’s representative and country director, emphasized the importance of the support.
“Food assistance is about more than immediate survival. It’s about helping communities build resilience for the future. Thanks to Korea’s support, thousands of families in Shurugwi have a better chance of overcoming hunger,” she said.
Building resilience for the future
The LSA programme aligns with Zimbabwe’s national Food Deficit Mitigation Strategy. The approach focuses not only on providing immediate relief but also on encouraging long-term solutions to improve food security.
Totamirepi Tirivavi, commissioner for refugees at Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, commended Korea’s support and WFP’s role in ensuring that aid reaches the most vulnerable.
“This donation comes at a crucial time and ensures that vulnerable households are supported during the lean season. We are grateful to Korea and WFP for their continued efforts to strengthen food security in Zimbabwe,” said Tirivavi.
Food distribution will continue across the country as part of the Food Deficit Mitigation Strategy. The WFP’s LSA programme is expected to conclude in March.
