The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) welcomed the Japanese government’s contribution of USD2.3Million that will enable WFP to strengthen food assistance to some 94,000 primary school and 60,000 pre-primary school learners, through the government of Lesotho’s national school feeding programme.
“This support came at a critical time when WFP is appealing for more resources to respond to increasing needs.
‘It will help the most vulnerable, Basotho children, some of whom, the only nutritious meals they receive are provided through the national school feeding programme,” said WFP Lesotho Acting Country Representative, Hsunhee Marian Yun.
The minister of education and training, Ntlhoi Motsamai, reiterated the significance of Japan’s support explaining that “like many countries across the world, Lesotho has been negatively affected by climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic has only deepened the woes of many Basotho. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the government of Japan for this direct investment in the future of our country through the national school feeding programme. As we reopen schools this contribution will go a long way in supporting the most vulnerable children.”
The support comes at a crucial time, as food insecurity levels in the country remain high and particularly affect the most vulnerable, including children. Results from the latest Integrated Phase Classification (IPC) Food Insecurity Analysis of August 2020 predict that some 40 percent of the population will need immediate food assistance, with the figure expected to grow towards the end of 2020.
