By Thokozani Mazibuko
The Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla received E22 million worth of rice on behalf of vulnerable households on Monday.
The Republic of China on Taiwan is the one that donated 880 metric tonnes of rice valued at E22 million to the Kingdom of Eswatini.
The rice, which will benefit 6 667 most vulnerable households with 33 334 beneficiaries in 13 constituencies across the country through a methodology known as Food for Assets,
was presented by the Ambassador of the Republic of China on Taiwan in the Kingdom of Eswatini Jeremy Liang and was received by the Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Thulisile Dladla on behalf of the Kingdom of Eswatini during a donation ceremony that took place at National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) warehouse in Matsapha at around 9am.
When making her remarks during the event, the DPM said on behalf of His Majesty’s Government, she was delighted to receive the generous donations of rice from the Republic of China on Taiwan.
She pointed out that this donation consists of 880 metric tonnes of rice valued at about E22 million donated by the World Vision Taiwan.
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She stated that the Government of Eswatini funded the project through shipping costs to the tune of E6 million while World Vision Eswatini will cover the project operational costs valued at E6 million.
“This brings the total value of the project to E34 million,” she said.
The DPM said this significant contribution continuously reflects the Taiwan Government’s unwavering commitment to partnering with His Majesty’s Government in ensuring poverty reduction and food security in the country.
She further alluded to the fact that the timing of this donation was particularly crucial as it came at a time when thousands of Emaswati were in need for humatarian support due to various natural hazards that affected the country such as hailstorms and dry spells,
which had negatively affected crop production as reflected in the Annual Vulnerability Assessment 2024 .
“As we all know, His Majesty’s Government is committed to ensuring that all Emaswati have access to food and this donation will go a long way in ensuring that this is achievable.
The rice will benefit 6 667 most vulnerable households with 33 334 beneficiaries in 13 constituencies across the country through a methodology known as Food for Assets,” she said.
She said the Food for Assets programme will strengthen community development while also providing food support to vulnerable households.
“To the partners that will be involved in the implementation of this project I wish to encourage them that let us support development and sustainable projects which are aimed at building resilience.
It is vital that we collaborate with the community level structures including the Inkhundla council and Imiphakatsi for sustainability of the project,” she said.
The DPM appreciated the strong relationship that exists between NDMA and World Vision Eswatini, which enables them to take quick actions with a proactive approach towards supporting development and livelihoods initiatives in the country.
“I further encourage the two entities to continue joining hands even in more preparedness and resilience building initiatives towards building a disaster safe and resilient nation.
Let me also kindly take this opportunity to acknowledge the strong partnership that exists between our two nations (Eswatini and the Republic of China on Taiwan),” she said.
She pointed out that the Republic of China on Taiwan has consistently demonstrated their commitment to the countries’ shared values of friendship, cooperation, and development.
She said through initiatives such as yesterday’ donation, the two countries continued to strengthen the bonds that unite them and it was the intention of The Kingdom of Eswatini’s Government that these shared values were continuously strengthened.
“Let me take this moment to once again express our gratitude to the people of Taiwan, their government, and all those involved in making this donation possible.
Together we shall conquer the impacts of climate change and hazard-driven events,” she said.
When making his remarks, the Ambassador of the Republic of China on Taiwan in the Kingdom of Eswatini began by congratulating NDMA newly appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Victor Mahlalela on his new appointment.
“I recall seeing him accompany the Honourable DPM to all corners of the country when disasters struck during his acting term in recent months.
I trust he will execute his duties as admirably as his predecessor, the Right Honourable Prime Minister Russell Dlamini, who was an excellent disaster relief coordinator,” he said.
Liang said it was an honour for him to stand before the attendees yesterday as they witness the significant donation of 880 tonnes of rice from World Vision Taiwan, in partnership with NDMA and World Vision Eswatini, to the Kingdom of Eswatini.
He pointed out that this gesture was not just a symbol of Taiwan and Eswatini’s enduring friendship but also a crucial response to the pressing food security challenges facing this nation.
“We are fully aware that over 200 000 Emaswati are grappling with acute food shortages, a situation exacerbated by prolonged low rainfall induced by climate change, economic challenges, and the lingering effects of the global pandemic.
People are experiencing a harsh winter. This donation, therefore, is more than just food – it’s a lifeline to families struggling to meet their most fundamental needs,” he said.
He pointed out that World Vision Taiwan was established in the challenging year of 1964 when Taiwan had yet to stand firmly on its own feet and relied on foreign assistance to overcome various challenges.
He mentioned that having been a recipient rather than a donor for decades, Taiwan now has the capability and willingness to extend its helping hand and return the grace and favour she received from others.
“It is worth mentioning that World Vision Taiwan donated 3 000 tonnes of rice in 2021 and 1 000 tonnes in 2022 to NDMA, while the government of Taiwan has donated around 1 200 tonnes since the pandemic began.
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Another 400 tonnes of rice will soon arrive in Eswatini to bolster this relief effort,” he said.
Liang extended his deepest gratitude to World Vision Taiwan and World Vision Eswatini for their swift and generous response, embodying the spirit of global solidarity and collective endeavour.
“To the Eswatini Government and the NDMA, I commend your tireless efforts in ensuring equitable aid distribution.
As we hand over this donation, we reaffirm Taiwan’s commitment to stand by Eswatini in both good times and challenging ones.
We hope this contribution provides immediate relief and supports your on-going efforts to build resilience in food systems that will benefit Emaswati,” he said.
