China has pledged continued support to Zimbabwe’s food security efforts, handing over the latest consignment of grain aid to assist vulnerable communities hit by drought and other natural disasters.
Speaking at the State House, Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe said the latest delivery, comprising 1,500 tonnes of rice and 750 tonnes of wheat, forms part of three batches of assistance provided since President Mnangagwa declared a state of disaster following the El Niño-induced drought. An additional 750 tonnes of wheat is still en route to the country.
The Ambassador noted that China and Zimbabwe share “time-honoured friendship,” with Beijing having delivered 20 batches of food assistance over the past two decades. Beyond food aid, he said China has supported rural infrastructure, borehole drilling, irrigation upgrades, and agricultural technology transfers aimed at boosting local production and poverty reduction.
Deputy Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Hon. Nsi Ngaru Dinha, thanked China for its “generosity and partnership” which she said dates back to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle. She said the grain would be prioritised for child-headed families, the elderly, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
China’s assistance has also extended to major infrastructure projects in Zimbabwe, including the new Parliament Building, Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport upgrades, and Victoria Falls Airport.
The government says the donations will bolster its relief efforts as the nation works to mitigate the impact of recurrent droughts and ensure food security for all citizens.
