Africa-Press – Eswatini. A total of 25 500 orphans and vulnerable children in Eswatini will receive vital nutritional support thanks to a E25 million food aid package from Japan, delivered through the World Food Programme under the Japan Food Assistance Aid.
The assistance, channelled through the World Food Programme (WFP), was officially confirmed today, July 30, 2025, during the signing of the Exchange of Notes between WFP Eswatini and the Government of Japan on the response to food and nutrition insecurity among orphans and vulnerable children in Eswatini at the UN House in Mbabane.
The initiative will supply essential food items including 94 tons of canned fish from Japan, 359 tons of white maize, 144 tons of beans, and 27 tons of fresh vegetables to all four regions of Eswatini.
Speaking at the event, Japan’s representative H.E. Shimizu Fumio, Ambassador of the Embassy of Japan reaffirmed the country’s enduring commitment to fighting hunger and malnutrition, stating that the partnership with WFP reflects Japan’s support for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2 Zero Hunger. “We sincerely hope this support helps children pursue their dreams,” he added.
Minister of Economic Planning and Development, Dr. Thambo Gina, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Japan, noting that the support comes at a critical time as the country grapples with food insecurity. “In September last year, 20 per cent of the population was experiencing acute food insecurity, requiring urgent humanitarian assistance,” he said.
The food aid aligns with Eswatini’s National Development Plan (2023/24–2027/28), which prioritizes the rights and well-being of orphans and vulnerable children. Dr. Gina assured that every portion of the aid will reach its intended beneficiaries through robust monitoring and distribution mechanisms in collaboration with WFP.
Ashraful Amin, country Director and Representative a.i of WFP Eswatini, described the grant as “more than a financial contribution,” emphasizing that it is an investment in human capital and a symbol of solidarity amid ongoing poverty, climate challenges, and the lingering effects of HIV. He also praised Japan for aligning the donation with the TICAD principles and Eswatini’s NCP Strategy.
The ceremony also celebrated the growing ties between Japan and Eswatini, which have recently included high-level engagements and discussions on broader economic cooperation. As Japan prepares to host TICAD 9 in Yokohama next month, both nations look forward to strengthening their partnership for sustainable development.
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