The governments of The Gambia and Japan have formalized a major food assistance initiative, signing Exchange Notes for the provision of Japanese support worth ¥200 million, about D95 millio, under the Japanese Food Assistance Programme.

The signing ceremony took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, and was presided over by Minister Hon. Sering Modou Njie.

The agreement commits Japan to supply 1,776 metric tons of rice, aimed at strengthening the country’s food and nutritional security and complementing ongoing national interventions.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Njie expressed the Gambian government’s deep appreciation, emphasizing that the assistance comes at a crucial time and will bolster efforts to ensure food availability nationwide.

Japanese Ambassador to The Gambia, H.E. Akamatsu Takeshi, said the assistance directly responds to a request from Banjul and demonstrates Japan’s strong commitment to supporting the country’s food security agenda.

He also highlighted the programme’s potential long-term benefits, noting that proceeds from domestic rice sales could fund agricultural machinery, improved seeds, fertilizers, and other productivity-enhancing initiatives.

Both governments underscored their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, guided by shared values including democracy, rule of law, and respect for human rights, while working to advance The Gambia’s sustainable development objectives.

The food assistance is expected to make a significant impact on the nation’s food security, providing immediate relief while supporting longer-term agricultural development strategies.

By Adama Makasuba