The World Food Programme (WFP) is in dire need of US$6 million to sustain its crucial operations in Namibia from July to December this year. The organisation is racing against time to ensure food security for thousands of vulnerable Namibians.
WFP’s Country Director, Dr George Fedha, said the funds will be used to support a myriad of programmes aimed at alleviating hunger and poverty. “We are committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of Namibians,” he said.
In June alone, WFP reached an impressive 12,442 people, including 10,985 school children through its Home-Grown School Feeding Programme (HGSFP) and 1,457 beneficiaries under the Integrated Community-based Food Systems Projects.
The HGSFP, a cornerstone of WFP’s efforts, has shown promising results. An oversight mission to Kunene Region revealed a strong correlation between school feeding and improved academic performance and attendance.
“By nourishing young minds, we are investing in the future of Namibia,” said a WFP official involved in the mission. “We are confident that the HGSFP is making a significant impact on learning outcomes.”
Meanwhile, WFP is collaborating with the Farmer-to-Farmer Initiative to bolster agricultural practices. A team of US experts recently imparted valuable knowledge on pest control, farm management, and soil health to farmers in the Omaheke Region.
“This partnership is crucial in building the resilience of our farming communities,” said Fedha. “By equipping farmers with the necessary skills, we are empowering them to produce more and better food.”
The organisation is also leading the charge in environmental sustainability. A global evaluation of WFP’s environmental policy highlighted Namibia as a beacon of best practices in the HGSFP and food systems initiatives.
“We are proud of our commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Fedha. “Our work demonstrates that it is possible to feed the world while protecting the planet.”
As WFP navigates the challenges of food insecurity, the organisation calls on governments, donors, and the private sector to join hands in this critical endeavour.
“Every contribution counts,” said Fedha. “Together, we can create a hunger-free Namibia.”
