South Korea donates $2 million to aid World Food Programme’s efforts in Chad’s humanitarian crisis

The funds are intended to bolster emergency responses for communities in eastern Chad that are grappling with food insecurity and other dire challenges.

In a press release dated 2 September 2024, the WFP’s Chad office expressed gratitude for the substantial contribution from South Korea.

“We are pleased with the funding from the Republic of Korea, which is essential to our vital operations.

It strengthens our capacity to strategically prioritise our efforts,” said Sarah Gordon-Gibson, WFP Country Director for Chad.

She added, “With people suffering from acute food insecurity and severe malnutrition, we must work hand in hand to support the Chadian government’s efforts.”

The WFP stated that the cash donation will enable the organisation to provide monetary transfers to approximately 56,000 Sudanese refugees and the most severely affected Chadians in the eastern region.

These funds will be critical in addressing the immediate needs of those facing multiple crises, including severe food shortages and displacement.

Chad is currently experiencing its worst lean season on record, with the WFP highlighting an alarming state of emergency in food and nutrition.

According to the agency, 3.4 million people are enduring severe food insecurity, with many families struggling to access enough food to survive.

The situation has been further compounded by a second consecutive year of devastating floods, which have already affected nearly one million people and submerged 251,000 hectares of farmland.

The WFP’s efforts, supported by South Korea’s donation, aim to mitigate the impact of these overlapping crises, providing essential aid to those in need.

The financial support will not only address immediate hunger but also help stabilise communities that have been pushed to the brink by ongoing challenges.

As Chad navigates through these unprecedented times, international support remains crucial in averting a deeper humanitarian catastrophe.