By Mbakutu Manneh
The governments of The Gambia and Japan on Monday formalized a $95 million food assistance agreement aimed at bolstering the West African nation’s food security.
Under the Japanese Food Assistance Programme, Japan will provide 1,776 metric tons of rice, valued at approximately ¥200 million, to the Gambia. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambians Abroad said the shipment is expected to address urgent food needs and complement ongoing national efforts to strengthen agricultural resilience and food availability.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister Sering Modou Njie expressed gratitude to Japan for its “continued and unwavering support,” noting that the assistance arrives at a critical juncture for the country’s food sector. “This support will enhance food availability while reinforcing broader government interventions in agriculture and rural development,” he said.
Japanese Ambassador H.E. Akamatsu Takeshi said the aid responds directly to a request from the Gambian government and demonstrates Japan’s commitment to supporting the country’s food security agenda. He praised Gambians for their resilience amid global economic pressures and climatic challenges, and highlighted that the program is intended not only to meet immediate needs but also to promote longer-term self-reliance.
Proceeds from the domestic sale of the donated rice, Ambassador Takeshi added, could be reinvested in priority development projects, including the purchase of agricultural machinery, improved seeds, fertilizers, and other initiatives aimed at modernizing the sector and boosting productivity.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that both countries reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations grounded in democracy, the rule of law, and human rights, while deepening cooperation in support of The Gambia’s sustainable development objectives.
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