The Turkish government has significantly enhanced Namibia’s drought relief initiatives by donating food aid valued at approximately N$350,000. This essential assistance was delivered at a critical moment as nearly half of Namibia’s population is grappling with hunger due to the devastating impacts of an ongoing drought.
During a ceremony held in Windhoek, Namibia’s Deputy Prime Minister, John Mutorwa, expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the government for Türkiye’s timely support. He emphasized that the 2024/25 Comprehensive Drought Response Relief Programme (CDRRP) is currently under immense strain, with the drought leading to poor harvests, diminished grazing lands, and widespread water shortages.
Mutorwa detailed that the CDRRP is estimated to require N$1.6 billion, with over N$800 million already allocated by the government. However, there remains a funding gap of more than N$600 million, prompting the government to seek assistance from international partners.
He commended Türkiye for its consistent generosity, recalling previous contributions during earlier droughts and the COVID-19 pandemic. “Turkey’s valuable donation will significantly bolster our government’s efforts to protect the most vulnerable communities in our nation,” Mutorwa stated.
The food aid package, which includes 2,000 kilograms of maize, 760 liters of cooking oil, 1,000 kilograms of canned fish, and 500 kilograms of soya mince, will be distributed to the most affected households across Namibia. This contribution, procured locally by Türkiye’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), aims not only to assist those in need but also to support local producers and retailers.
Ambassador Feral Oruckaptan of Türkiye presented the aid and reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to standing in solidarity with Namibia during this challenging period. “In times of need, solidarity is what friendly nations feel obliged to do,” she remarked, highlighting the strong bonds between the two countries.
Oruckaptan also noted Türkiye’s ongoing support for sustainable solutions to climate-related challenges, citing the work of the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA). Since 2014, TIKA has completed over 110 projects in Namibia, with five more related to agriculture and food security expected to conclude by the end of the year.
As the drought continues to impact many communities across Namibia, the collaborative efforts between Türkiye and Namibia illustrate the power of international cooperation in addressing significant environmental challenges.
