Published: 16 September 2013

The Japanese government has set aside $4,2 million to boost food security for the poor and under privileged community across the country, the World Food Programme (WFP) said yesterday.

In a statement WFP Zimbabwe's office said Japan's support came at a time when the country was facing an imminent food crisis between the first quarter of 2014.

"Japan's contribution will help fund various WFP initiatives including programmes to assist vulnerable rural households until the next harvest and malnourished HIV/TB patients, women and children.

"Around 2.2 million people will need food assistance between January and March 2014, according to a recent study under taken by the Government of Zimbabwe in partnership with the United Nations and other organisations.

"The Zimbabwe Vulnerability Assessment Committee (ZimVAC) Rural Livelihoods Report estimates that one in four of the rural population could face hunger during the coming lean season.

"WFP and partners are preparing to assist some 1.8 million vulnerable people through food distributions and cash transfers beginning in October"read part of the statement.

The organisation added that the support they were getting from the Japanese government would enable them to increase its assistance to people most at risk so that they could lead more productive lives.
- herald

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