THE World Food Programme (WFP), in partnership with the Russian Federation and the government, has delivered food assistance to vulnerable residents in Malalume, Bulilima, under the lean season support programme.
The distribution included government-supplied sorghum and beans, and cooking oil provided by Russia.
The initiative aims to address pockets of food insecurity in the country, particularly in areas that experienced poor harvests during the 2024-25 farming season, despite bumper harvests in other regions.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare ministry chief director Tawanda Zimunga said: “During the past season 2024-25, the country recorded a sharp rise in food security. However, there were some pockets which did not harvest much — only 15% of the country remained food insecure during the peak period of January to March 2026, including yourselves here.”
Zimunga expressed gratitude to the Russian Federation for the food aid channelled through WFP, which is providing assistance to 37 districts across the country including Bulilima and Kariba. The government provides cereals, while WFP comes in with cooking oil and beans.
"This support is important especially to reach vulnerable elderly people, women, child-headed households, persons with disabilities and those that are chronically ill," he said.
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"The food assistance from the Russian Federation will not go unnoticed in showing how global solidarity can effectively respond to pressing needs, especially during disasters."
Russian deputy ambassador to Zimbabwe, Sergey Kuzin, said Russia contributed 352 tonnes of yellow beans and 117 tonnes of cooking oil, valued at US$1,5 million, to support the most vulnerable communities.
"We are aware of the government's efforts to build resilience. In December 2024, the Russian Federation provided 559 tonnes of beans and cooking oil to Chivi district," Kuzin said.
He added that Zimbabwe remained a priority for Russia in strengthening bilateral relations.
WFP official Lungile Ndlovu said beneficiaries would receive a two-month allocation of sorghum (15kg per person), a three-month allocation of beans and a two-month supply of cooking oil.
Headman Mgqibelo Moyo welcomed the assistance, urging that it continues.
“We are very happy with your assistance. We appeal that this must not end here but must continue since we still have food challenges,” Moyo said.
Bulilima constituency administration officer Philasande Mandla Malinga highlighted the historical ties between Zimbabwe and Russia, dating back to the liberation struggle, noting that the food distribution coincides with independence celebrations.
A beneficiary expressed gratitude while stressing ongoing need: “We still face food insecurity due to heavy rains that caused waterlogging and crop failure. We are asking that the food assistance programme continues.”