The Government of Japan has provided 1,970 metric tons of maize, valued at approximately $2.06 million USD, to Malawi through the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP).

The donation aims to address severe food insecurity impacting millions across the country.

Speaking at the exchange of notes ceremony in Lilongwe, Japanese Ambassador Yoichi Oya directly linked the aid to alarming assessments. 

“This donation is a response to WFP assessments indicating that nearly 3.5 million Malawians are currently confronting emergency-level food insecurity," Ambassador Oya stated. 

He emphasized the broader goal: "Our aim is to address critical food insecurity and enhance human security in Malawi."

WFP Country Director Hyoung Joon Lim confirmed the vital role the maize will play. 

“This timely contribution from Japan will support vulnerable communities in desperate need, particularly in the southern region," Lim said.

The arrival of the Japanese aid coincides with the imminent release of the crucial Malawi Vulnerability Assessment Committee (MVAC) report. 

Moses Chimphepo, Commissioner of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA), highlighted the significance of this timing. 

"This donation comes at a critical moment," Chimphepo noted, "allowing us to synchronize relief efforts with our national response plans once the MVAC report formalizes the scale of humanitarian needs."

Malawi's capacity to feed itself remains severely hampered by climate extremes. Erratic rainfall, dry spells, and a reduction in rainy days have led to widespread crop failure, crippling national food system and deepening the current crisis.