Forced to buy, instead of grow maize Photo: Obinna Anyadike/IRIN
(December 11, 2008, Winnipeg, MB) — Canadian Foodgrains Bank (CFGB) is providing 9,109 metric tons of food to people in Zimbabwe, a country that is facing one of the most significant food crises in the world. The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund is one of 15 member agencies that make up CFGB.
The UN predicts that 5.1 million people, nearly half the population of Zimbabwe, will require emergency food aid in the first quarter of 2009, due to recent drought, poor agricultural policies and a rapidly declining economy. Further compounding the situation is the high prevalence of HIV/AIDS and a recent cholera outbreak.
The $7 million project includes 6,927 metric tons of maize, 1,385 tons of pulses, 405 tons of oil, and 392 tons of corn soy blend, all purchased in southern Africa. Approximately 120,000 beneficiaries will receive rations to sustain them for five months, until the next harvest.
In addition to food aid, Canadian Foodgrains Bank supports long-term food security projects in three districts of Zimbabwe. Farmers with small land holdings are learning the principles of a revolutionary farming system called Conservation Farming, which has allowed them to triple their corn yields.
“As in most of the regions where we support projects, the work of ending hunger in Zimbabwe requires several approaches,” says Jim Cornelius, Executive Director of Canadian Foodgrains Bank. “It is important to respond as quickly as possible to the immediate needs so that people have the strength to carry on until the next harvest. It is also very important to support communities in their ongoing efforts to develop lasting solutions and feed themselves.”