China sends Zimbabwe 5,000 tonnes of rice, stepping up efforts to bolster food security for vulnerable communities. The consignment represents the final batch of an emergency food package totalling 10,000 tonnes of rice and wheat.
Minister hails timely donation as China sends Zimbabwe rice
The 5,000 tons of rice is part of the pledgethat by Beijing made following Zimbabwe’s declaration of a national disaster over the El Niño-induced drought in 2024.
Zimbabwe Receives 5,000 Tonnes of Rice from China to Aid Vulnerable Communities
Zimbabwe has welcomed 5,000 metric tonnes of rice from China, reinforcing government efforts to support vulnerable communities and strengthen social safety nets. pic.twitter.com/kDYwCwq1k5
— Daniel Mako (@fafaffy) March 24, 2026
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Edgar Moyo said the donation would be channelled to vulnerable households. This includes the elderly, in a transparent and accountable manner.
“This gesture is not merely an act of goodwill; it is a profound testament to the enduring and mutually beneficial relations that continue to flourish between the Government of Zimbabwe and the Government of China,” Minister Moyo said.
He added their partnership, grounded in solidarity and shared developmental aspirations, has consistently yielded tangible benefits. He said this is particularly in times of adversity.
Moyo also noted that Zimbabwe and the broader Southern African region have been adversely affected by recurrent climatic shocks. These challenges have exerted considerable pressure on food systems, livelihoods, and the overall well-being of vulnerable citizens.
Minister Moyo thanked Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Zhou Ding for the generosity. He described the rice donation as both timely and impactful.
China reaffirms commitment to agricultural resilience
Ambassador Zhou Ding reaffirmed the cordial ties between the two nations. He noted that China remains steadfast in its support for Zimbabwe’s food security and agricultural resilience.
“In 2024, when the President declared a state of national disaster due to food shortages caused by the El Niño-induced drought, China responded swiftly by providing emergency food assistance, totalling 10,000 tonnes of rice and wheat to support the most vulnerable communities here in Zimbabwe,” Ambassador Zhou said.
Ambassador Zhou noted that they were handing over the last batch of 5,000 packs, which embodied the warm friendship of the Chinese people. He said it demonstrated China’s commitment to Zimbabwe’s food security and reflected its enduring solidarity with Zimbabwe.
He further stated that China remained committed to supporting Zimbabwe. This is part of its efforts to strengthen food security and build agricultural resilience.
China, however further prioritises sharing advanced, well-proven agricultural technologies with Zimbabwe. In 2021 and 2022, the Chinese government proposed the Global Development Initiatives emphasising cooperation in food security, poverty reduction, and sustainable development.
In a recent development, China dispatched the first shipment of 60,000 tonnes of rice to Cuba amid a worsening food crisis. The first shipments, including 4,800 tons, began arriving in January 2026.