The Gambia Government has signed a food assistance deal with Japan Government under its Food Assistance Programme.

The Government of Japan allocated about 125 million Dalasis dedicated to the implementation of the Food Assistance under its grant aid scheme.

Speaking at the ceremony, Gambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mamadou Tangara praised the government of Japan for the support and said that the ceremony is of significant importance to The Gambia’s post Covid-19 reconstruction.

He said: “Even though Japan and other countries are rebuilding post-Covid, Japan continues to reach out to friendly countries like The Gambia to strengthen cooperation through economic and technical assistance.

“The spirit of generosity and genuine cooperation has always been a defining characteristic of the Japanese people.”

Dr Tangara recognised with appreciation, Japan’s enormous contributions towards the strengthening of the bonds of solidarity, friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

He also conveyed on behalf of the government and people of the Republic of The Gambia their gratitude to Japan for their continued partnership and solidarity over the years.

For his part, the Ambassador of Japan to  The Gambia H.E. Izawa Osamu, said the food aid is part of the contribution of Japan to support the efforts of the Government of The Gambia towards food security and poverty alleviation.

Ambassador Izawa Osamu reiterated Japan’s continuous commitment to stand by the people and the Government of The Gambia in all circumstances in order to achieve social and economic development goals.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba