Chinese govt donates $14M worth of food to Zim

The Chinese government has mobilised food worth $14 million for distribution in food insecure districts around the country.

In an interview last week, the economic and commercial counsellor at the Chinese embassy in Harare, Mr Han Bing, said the food has been handed over to the Government and was awaiting distribution through the Grain Marketing Board.

He said the project was a bilateral donation from the Chinese government to help Zimbabweans in need.

"We handed over the food to the Zimbabwean Government because they know the exact areas in which aid is needed most," said Mr Han.

"We intend to bring in a team of agricultural experts for a year to help Zimbabwean farmers with extensive farming.

"My government will also make available US$2 million worth of agricultural machinery among many other projects," he added.

The Chinese government and the Zimbabwe Government had been working on many projects together throughout the years and intended to continue with the partnership, said Mr Han.

The Chinese government has been one of the country's biggest supporters following the imposition of illegal sanctions by the West. Parts of the country are expected to face food shortages after being affected by poor rainfall.
 
Areas such as Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North, Bulawayo, Midlands, Masvingo and parts of Manicaland have been experiencing poor rainfall and are facing food shortages.