Germany Donates $875K to WFP for Food Crisis Response in Malawi
An estimated 4.4 million people in Malawi are facing acute food shortages.
LILONGWE, Malawi— Germany has donated $875,000 to the World Food Program to help respond to Malawi's worsening food insecurity crisis during the upcoming lean season, officials announced this week, writes Esther Banda.
The German ambassador to Malawi, Ute König, said the contribution will boost WFP's emergency food distributions to the most vulnerable households struggling with acute hunger across the country.
"This contribution is timely as the Response has funding gaps. The Government of Germany will always stand ready to support the Government of Malawi in helping ending poverty," König said at a press conference.
According to WFP's country director Paul Turnbull, Germany's donation will help provide food rations for 67,500 people from 15,000 households in the hardest-hit districts over the next few months.
An estimated 4.4 million people in Malawi are facing acute food shortages, though WFP's lean season response currently only has enough funding to assist around 1.2 million due to global donor fatigue.
"The support will help to reach 67,500 people which translates to 15,000 households in the most food - insecure districts," Turnbull said.
The maize purchased with Germany's contribution has already been shipped to Malawi and distributions will begin on Dec. 8, officials said.