By: Fatou Dahaba
In a vital show of international solidarity, the Government of Japan has donated $1.5 million to the World Food Programme (WFP) to address acute malnutrition in The Gambia, particularly among children and pregnant women devastated by recent severe flooding.
The contribution was formally handed over during a ceremony at the WFP warehouse in Kanifing on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. Dignitaries from government, international organizations, and local agencies gathered to mark the occasion, underscoring the urgent need for nutrition support amid escalating climate challenges and food insecurity.
Ambassador Akamatsu Takeshi of Japan emphasized that the funding targets immediate emergency relief while building longer-term resilience. “This project not only provides life-saving food assistance but also specialized nutrition for children and pregnant women,” he said. Highlighting Japan’s own history with natural disasters, the ambassador stressed the value of pairing short-term aid with disaster preparedness to help communities withstand future shocks. He reaffirmed Japan’s ongoing commitment to bolstering The Gambia’s food security and poverty reduction efforts.
The initiative, known as the Humanitarian Food and Nutrition Assistance project, will reach approximately 46,000 flood-affected individuals. It focuses on distributing essential food supplements, such as Corn-Soy Blend Plus (CSB Plus), which are critical for preventing and managing moderate and severe acute malnutrition, especially among vulnerable groups, such as pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Dr. Ahmadou Samateh, Minister of Health, expressed deep appreciation for Japan’s timely support. “We are profoundly grateful for this essential contribution, which aligns with our national priorities to improve living standards and strengthen food security,” he said. He also praised the WFP for its robust technical, logistical, and coordination role in delivering aid effectively.
Representing the WFP and UN Resident Coordinator, Karl-Frederick Paul, noted that the donation will directly assist around 40,000 beneficiaries, including children under five and pregnant women. “The project will provide food assistance to over 9,200 individuals and deliver nutritional supplements to 4,313 children and 3,000 women,” he stated. Beyond immediate relief, it includes rehabilitating key agricultural infrastructure to enhance productivity and mitigate future flood damage.
The WFP reiterated its thanks to the Gambian government and local communities for their collaboration, pledging continued transparency and accountability in efforts to improve nationwide food security and nutrition.
Additional acknowledgments came from the Executive Directors of the National Nutrition Agency and the National Disaster Management Agency, who recognized Japan’s consistent support across various sectors in The Gambia.
As climate-induced floods and rising food prices continue to threaten vulnerable populations, this Japanese-funded partnership offers critical hope for safeguarding the health and future of thousands in one of West Africa’s most at-risk nations.
