Japan has pledged approximately $1.3 million to the World Food Programme (WFP) to support 32,000 food-insecure Zimbabweans during the upcoming 2025/26 lean season, a critical period often characterised by acute hunger and dwindling household food reserves.
Speaking in Harare on Thursday, Japan’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Shinichi Yamanaka, expressed optimism that the donation would help vulnerable communities weather the challenging months ahead until the next harvest, expected around April 2026.
“I hope this food aid will help these vulnerable people get through the lean season,” he said.
The funds will enable the WFP to distribute essential food supplies including cereals, pulses, and vegetable oil from January to March 2026 — the time when food availability typically hits its lowest point in Zimbabwe.
Barbara Clemens, WFP’s country director in Zimbabwe, welcomed Japan’s support, emphasising its timely nature amid ongoing efforts to assist districts most affected by food insecurity.
“Thanks to this support from the Japanese government, many families will no longer have to worry about their next meal when hunger is at its peak,” she said.
Since 2015, Japan’s contribution to Zimbabwe through WFP has totaled $15.8 million, underscoring a long-standing partnership aimed at alleviating hunger and enhancing food security.
The 2024/25 agricultural season has faced a slow start, with the Zimbabwean government targeting cereal production of 3.3 million tonnes to meet the country’s needs.
However, financial constraints have delayed the distribution of farming inputs, especially to smallholder farmers who produce 70% of the nation’s maize crop.
As Zimbabwe braces for the lean months ahead, Japan’s aid injection offers a vital lifeline for thousands vulnerable to hunger during this difficult period.
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