South Africa announced it will contribute 140 million rand ($22 million) to relief efforts in drought-hit neighboring nations. Pretoria, according to a statement by the Department of Land Affairs and Agriculture, "has given favorable consideration to a recent request by the WFP (World Food Program) for assistance in the light of the current food vulnerability in the region." The donation aims to allow households to regain productivity and finance direct food assistance programs in Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe. A small portion of the money will support the development of an early warning system for the Southern African Development Community. "The details and timing of the assistance," the department said, "will be finalized in collaboration with the WFP and Food and Agriculture Organization."
Sources:
South Africa to give food aid to drought-stricken neighbours (AFP)
South Africa to provide food aid to 7 SADC countries (Xinhua)
