Mbabane: Deputy Prime Minister Senator Themba Masuku received on behalf of Government, food support worth about E31.6 million from Japan.
The aid will be used to strengthen food support mechanisms for underprivileged households in Eswatini. The donation consist of 1300 tons maize, 500 tons Japanese rice and 400 tons beans and this donation came through the World Food Programme (WFP).
Speaking during a virtual signing ceremony, held at the DPMO conference room on Friday, Masuku said Government, in the interest of sustained food and nutrition security and the social stability that it brings, thanks the Government of Japan for this support.
Masuku added that this contribution allows the country to continue providing nutritious food to the most affected households.
DPM highlighted that more recently, the focus has been on improving food security as the country has been negatively affected by a number of disasters including draught. The Government of Japan has assisted us with the procurement of agricultural equipment to assist farmers in food production. To help the Eswatini Government improve its health system to deal with the Covid19 Pandemic, the Government of Japan has, recently signed an Exchange of Notes with our Government, for a grant to procure medical equipment worth 100 Million Japanese Yen (SZL15.3Million).
“This just shows the magnitude of the support and partnership we have with Japan and the value placed by the Government of Japan on improving living standards, supporting poverty reduction and social stability as basic policies.” Masuku said.
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Kingdom Eswatini Mr Norio Maruyama said the grant will help improve food security and aid the economic and social development of the country. “Our joint efforts will propel our cooperation in food security to new heights and strengthen our friendship further.” Maruyama said.
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