The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) says the Japanese Government’s contribution of $1.75 million (approximately over K3 billion) will tackle food insecurity, assist communities recovering from natural disasters, and enhance Malawi’s agricultural export capacity.
Japan’s Ambassador to Malawi, Yoichi Oya, announced the funding at an event in Lilongwe, where he was joined by representatives from the Government of Malawi.
“Japan remains committed to supporting Malawi’s efforts to overcome food insecurity and foster sustainable development,” Oya is quoted as saying in a statement.
“By addressing immediate needs and investing in agricultural export capacity, we aim to contribute to a brighter future for Malawians,” he added.
According to Interim WFP Malawi Country Director, Simon Denhere, the funding will support national efforts to provide food assistance during the lean season, which is expected to be particularly challenging due to consecutive climate shocks. Through the support, WFP will procure, transport, and distribute 786 metric tonnes of maize to reach 71,000 vulnerable people.
“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 Denhere in the statement.
In addition to emergency relief, Japan is investing $1 million (approximately K1.734 billion) to strengthen Malawi’s sesame export capacity. In partnership with WFP, the Malawi Bureau of Standards will enhance certification, testing, and quarantine measures to meet international trade requirements. The initiative includes training, facility upgrades, and technical collaboration to boost export opportunities for smallholder farmers.
Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA), Commissioner, Charles Kalemba, welcomed the support, saying: “The Government of Malawi deeply appreciates Japan’s support in strengthening our national response to food insecurity. This timely gesture complements government efforts in providing much-needed relief to vulnerable communities affected by climate shocks while boosting our national food stocks.”
The assistance comes at a time when Malawi continues to recover from the effects of Tropical Cyclone Freddy (2023) and the El Niño-induced drought (2024). WFP and its partners say they will remain committed to improving resilience and food security for vulnerable communities across the country.
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