Source: 5 000t rice boosts food security – herald
Precious Manomano and Muchaneta Chimuka
Zimbabwe has received 5 000 tonnes of rice from China as part of efforts to address food insecurity among vulnerable populations.
The consignment, handed over at the Grain Marketing Board in Harare, will augment Government efforts to mitigate effects of recent climatic shocks.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Edgar Moyo said priority will be accorded to vulnerable households, including the elderly.
“This gesture is not merely an act of goodwill, it is a profound testament to the enduring and mutually beneficial relations that continue to flourish between the Government of Zimbabwe and the Government of China. Our partnership, grounded in solidarity and shared developmental aspirations, has consistently yielded tangible benefits, particularly in times of adversity.
“As we are all aware, Zimbabwe and the broader Southern African region have, in recent years, been adversely affected by recurrent climatic shocks, most notably the El Niño-induced drought. These challenges have exerted considerable pressure on food systems, livelihoods and the overall well-being of our citizens, particularly the most vulnerable segments of our society,” he said.
Minister Moyo thanked Ambassador Zhou Ding for the generosity, noting that the donation of rice is both timely and impactful.
“Historically, such support has played a pivotal role in cushioning vulnerable communities, sustaining critical institutions and strengthening our national response to drought and related emergencies. This consignment will be distributed in a targeted, transparent and accountable manner,” he said.
Ambassador Zhou said Zimbabwe and China would continue to maintain cordial relations for social and economic development.
“In 2024, when the President declared a state of national disaster due to food shortages caused by the El Niño-induced drought, China responded swiftly by providing emergency food assistance, totalling 10 000 tonnes of rice and wheat to support the most vulnerable communities here in Zimbabwe.
“Today, we are handing over the last batch of 5 000 packs. This food assistance embodies the warm friendship of the Chinese people, demonstrates our unwavering commitment to Zimbabwe’s food security and reflects our enduring solidarity with Zimbabwe, especially in times of difficulties. China remains committed to supporting Zimbabwe’s efforts to strengthen food security and build agricultural resilience,” he said.
Over the years, China has supported Zimbabwe in building agricultural infrastructure, including dams and irrigation systems, to enhance production. It has worked with UN agencies to improve sustainable soil management and water resource planning — efforts that will further strengthen the country’s agricultural resilience and food systems.
China also places a high priority on sharing well-proven, advanced agricultural technologies with Zimbabwe.
In 2021, the Chinese government proposed the Global Development Initiative and the following year the Global Security Initiative emphasising cooperation in food security, poverty reduction, and sustainable development.
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