Vouchers for drought-stricken Kunene communities
The Ambassador of Japan to Namibia H.E. Shinichi Asazuma, World Food Programme (WFP) Namibia Acting Country Director Tiwonge Machiwenyika, and Hon. Marius Sheya, Governor of Kunene Region recently conducted a post-distribution monitoring visit to Queen Sofia Farm and the De Riet settlement to assess the impact of the Japan-funded commodity voucher programme.This programme was implemented to provide life-saving food assistance to 26 556 people severely affected by the El-Niño induced drought in Kunene and Ohangwena regions for three months.
The monitoring visit provided the delegation an opportunity to engage directly with community members who have received assistance through the commodity voucher programme which was made possible through a contribution of N$9.3 million from the Government of Japan.
The beneficiaries shared how the vouchers have helped them access essential food items during one of the most severe droughts in recent history. Many expressed their gratitude for the assistance, which has been a critical lifeline for their families.
“As Namibia grapples with the consequences and aftermath of the 2024 El-Niño-induced drought, WFP is at the frontlines, supporting the Government in providing much-need food relief to communities. The support from the Government of Japan has wide-reaching impact in providing immediate relief to drought-affected communities and strengthening their abilities to recover from shocks in the future,” Machiwenyika said.
During the visit, Asazuma and the WFP team also gathered feedback from the communities on how the programme could be improved as well as their vision for the future. This input is vital for ensuring that future interventions are even more effective and responsive to the needs of those affected by climate shocks.
H.E. Shinichi Asazuma emphasised the importance of partnerships in addressing food insecurity. “This contribution from the Government of Japan is a sign of solidarity and friendship between our nations. Since 2021, the Government of Japan has supported WFP’s emergency response programme in Namibia providing much-needed resources to ensure that lives and livelihoods are protected.”