The United Nations World Food Programme, through funding by the Government of the Republic of Korea, has launched a commodity voucher programme worth 500 thousand US dollars to assist 25,500 drought-affected families and 3,500 children.
Namibia is grappling with one of its worst droughts owing to a lack of rain, with nearly 40 percent of the population currently experiencing food insecurity.
The crisis has taken a particularly heavy toll on children, heightening the urgency for international intervention such as the one by the Republic of Korea.
Its Ambassador to Namibia, Kwang-Jin Choi, highlighted his government's longstanding commitment to Namibia.
"Korea supports today our long-lasting partnership, which continues to build on long-lasting partnership with Namibia. This year marks the 34th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations; our cooperation has grown stronger over the years, and recently we have seen an increasingly high level of visits, economic cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges."
The donation of vouchers was received by the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Erastus Uutoni.
"Today, we gather to acknowledge and receive a generous contribution from the Government of the Republic of Korea, which will make a real difference in the lives of Namibians affected by the ongoing drought. This moment is not only about financial support.It is a reflection of solidarity, humanity, and the enduring friendship between our nations.The assistance we receive today provides hope and serves as a reminder of the importance of unity in tackling crises that no single country can handle alone."
The WFP Acting Country Director, country representative Tiwonge Machiwenyike, who is implementing the voucher program, also expressed appreciation for Korea's generosity and commitment to ensuring that the vouchers reach the vulnerable families.
"WFP will work closely with the Government of Namibia, local partners, and retailers to ensure that assistance reaches those who need it most.We will monitor and evaluate the programme rigorously to measure its impact and ensure transparency."
Beneficiaries will be drawn from Hardap and Zambezi. They will be provided with the commodity vouchers, which they can present at selected retailers for basic foodstuffs of their choice.