Ukraine delivers 19,200 tons of corn to Malawi to alleviate drought-driven food crisis

MALAWI – The Government of Ukraine, in cooperation with international partners, has completed its latest corn transfer to Malawi under the “Grain from Ukraine” humanitarian program.

This latest delivery, totaling 19,200 tons, aims to combat acute food insecurity affecting millions in Malawi, which is struggling under a prolonged drought which resulted in the loss of about 44% of the local maize crop.

According to available estimates, 5.7 million Malawians, approximately a quarter of the population, are currently experiencing acute food shortages.

Speaking during the ceremony, Andrii Pravednyk, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Malawi noted that Ukraine is a reliable partner and friend of Malawi.

According to him, the two countries share common views on fundamental international issues, particularly the respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, as well as paths to achieving a just peace in Ukraine based on the Peace Formula of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The recent shipment will provide immediate relief to approximately 1.55 million Malawians, supplying food for one month for about a quarter of the population currently experiencing severe food shortages

Pravednyk extended gratitude to the World Food Programme and donor countries such as Sweden, the Netherlands, France, and South Korea, whose financial backing has enabled the Grain from Ukraine initiative to deliver on its humanitarian goals.

Mr. Chuck Kalemba, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Malawi for Emergency Situations, spoke on behalf of the Malawian government, commending Ukraine and donor countries for their vital support.

 “This assistance will help stabilize our food supply during a difficult time. The resilience of Ukraine in the face of its own struggles is an inspiring example of global solidarity,” he said, underscoring Malawi’s support for peaceful and cooperative global relations.

The sentiments were echoed by representatives of supporting nations. The Swedish Ambassador, H.E. P. Lingarde, condemned Russian attacks on Ukrainian agricultural infrastructure, reiterating Sweden’s commitment to Ukrainian food exports, crucial for global food security.

Malawi’s plight highlights the broader impact of Ukraine’s contributions to stabilizing food supplies for vulnerable regions, despite challenges to its own production and export capabilities.

Launched in late 2022 by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the Grain from Ukraine program gained momentum following the first International Food Security Summit in Kyiv, with an initial backing of around US$220 million.

Since its inception, the initiative has provided life-sustaining food supplies to nations affected by food crises exacerbated by climate change and geopolitical conflicts.

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