Japan Contributes JPY 150M to WFP for Emergency Food Aid in Sudan, Benefiting 30,000 People Amid Growing Crisis

Japan's latest contribution not only provides emergency food aid but also boosts the local economy by sourcing grains from Sudanese farmers.

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has announced a crucial contribution of JPY 150 million (approximately US $1 million) from the Government of Japan to bolster its emergency food assistance operations in Sudan. This timely support will enable WFP to purchase locally grown grains, such as sorghum and millet, which will be distributed to over 30,000 vulnerable individuals as part of the emergency food rations program.

This contribution from Japan arrives at a pivotal moment as WFP intensifies its operations to combat widespread hunger, aiming to increase the number of people it supports to 7 million per month. The top priority for WFP remains delivering life-saving assistance to regions on the brink of famine.

According to the Integrated Phase Classification (IPC), Sudan is facing a severe humanitarian crisis, with approximately 24.6 million people—nearly half of the country's population—experiencing acute food insecurity (Phase 3 or above). Twenty-seven locations are either in famine or at imminent risk, and more than one-third of children in the most severely affected regions are acutely malnourished, surpassing the famine declaration threshold.

Laurent Bukera, WFP Regional Director for Eastern Africa, expressed gratitude for Japan's generous contribution: "We are working tirelessly to ramp up food assistance across Sudan, and this contribution will help us save lives and prevent vulnerable families from going hungry. We are incredibly grateful to the Government of Japan for their support to the Sudanese people."

Mr. Mizuuchi Kentaro, Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of Japan in Sudan, reaffirmed Japan's commitment: "In response to the severe humanitarian crisis in Sudan, Japan remains dedicated to addressing the urgent needs of those affected by the ongoing conflict, with a particular emphasis on food and nutrition assistance. Recognizing the critical role played by WFP, Japan is proud to support its invaluable efforts in alleviating suffering."

Japan's latest contribution not only provides emergency food aid but also boosts the local economy by sourcing grains from Sudanese farmers. This aligns with WFP's strategy to strengthen local agricultural systems while delivering humanitarian relief. Japan has been a steadfast supporter of WFP's mission in Sudan, contributing over US$13 million since 2021.

With this vital support, WFP can continue expanding its emergency operations, providing lifelines to communities affected by the conflict, and mitigating the devastating impacts of hunger and malnutrition in Sudan.