NDN Staffer
Windhoek, Sept. 5 – The Government of Brazil has demonstrated its commitment to combatting food insecurity in Namibia by generously donating $120,000 to the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). The funds are earmarked to improve food accessibility and alleviate malnutrition in five regions of the country.
This marks the third contribution from Brazil to the UN World Food Programme, and it arrives at a critical time when Namibia is grappling with the persistent consequences of drought, rising food costs, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The allocated resources will be strategically utilized to establish robust food systems within communities, schools, and health centres, with a primary focus on the Otjozondjupa, Omaheke, Hardap, Kunene, and Ohangwena Regions.
Vivian Loss Sanmartin, Ambassador of Brazil to Namibia, highlighted the evolution of Brazil’s support, stating, “What began in 2019 as a response to humanitarian assistance for the people of Namibia evolved into a second financial contribution in 2020, used to help five community-based food systems projects. The third donation this year represents Brazil’s commitment to continue supporting Namibia in the fight against food insecurity through transformative actions.”
Brazil’s generous donation will play a pivotal role in addressing Namibia’s pressing issue of food insecurity. It will enable the establishment of sustainable mechanisms that ensure adequate nourishment for vulnerable populations. Moreover, the funds will support initiatives that promote long-term resilience against future food scarcity and malnutrition challenges.
Hon. Carl Schlettwein, Minister of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, emphasized the alignment of Brazil’s contribution with Namibia’s national development goals in the agriculture sector. He stated, “This contribution will assist the beneficiary communities to produce their own food, thus becoming less dependent on food relief programs.”
The National Integrated Programme for Rural Transformation, led by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) in Namibia, focuses on fostering agricultural innovation and productivity, generating employment opportunities, nurturing the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises, facilitating trade, expanding market access, and promoting value chain development.
Ericah Shafudah, WFP’s acting Country Director in Namibia, expressed gratitude for Brazil’s continued support. She said, “WFP welcomes the continued support from the Government of Brazil to scale up food systems initiatives whilst facilitating skills and knowledge transfer to targeted communities. The contribution will complement national efforts to transform rural livelihoods and create employment opportunities, particularly for the youth and women.”
The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change.
