Rwanda, on July 18, donated 1,000 tonnes of maize to Zambia, a nation that has been hit by drought, according to Rwanda’s High Commission in the Southern African country.
"Rwanda stands in solidarity with Zambia! Today, on behalf of Rwanda Government I delivered 1,000 metric tonnes of relief maize to Zambia's Vice-President Nalumango, offering crucial support during the severe drought. Together, we face challenges with hope and unity,” Emmanuel Bugingo, the High Commissioner of Rwanda to Zambia, posted on his X page on July 18.
On July 19, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, posted on his X page that earlier this year, Zambia and other Southern African countries were affected by severe drought, which was caused by the El Niño weather phenomenon, aggravated by climate change. This natural disaster affected 84 out of 116 districts in Zambia, he added.
Tradition of intra-African solidarity
"In our tradition of intra-African solidarity, Rwandan Government delivered yesterday 1,000 metric tonnes of relief maize to the Government and brotherly people of Zambia,” Nduhungirehe said.
According to the Lusaka Provincial Administration, Zambian Vice President Mutale Nalumango said that the maize relief consignment will make an immediate and significant impact on the government’s efforts to alleviate hunger and provide relief to the needy. She was speaking after receiving the relief maize at the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) sheds in Lusaka-Zambia’s capital.
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She said the donation will ensure that food-insecure households across the affected districts have access to food, bringing hope and sustenance to families who are grappling with the challenges brought about by the emergency situation.
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The donation, Nalumango pointed out, symbolises a bond of friendship between the two countries and speaks volumes about Rwanda’s commitment to standing by the people of Zambia during times of crisis.
She further expressed gratitude to the Rwandan government saying, their solidarity reinforces Zambia’s belief in the strength of international cooperation to bridge distances and overcome challenges.
"Let us remember the importance of unity in times of crisis. Let us continue to support one another and work together to build a future where no one goes hungry or feels abandoned during their time of need,” she added.
On July 11, Rwanda donated 1,000 tonnes of maize to Zimbabwe, another Southern African country ravaged by El Niño induced drought.