Japanese government provides emergency food stocks to Laos

04/12/2024 12:56
Email Print 2710
KPL The Embassy of Japan signed an agreement on critical support to Lao PDR’s disaster relief needs and to alleviate food security.

(KPL​) The Embassy of Japan signed an agreement on critical support to Lao PDR’s disaster relief needs and to alleviate food security. 

The agreement was signed​ in Vientiane on December 4 between Ambassador Tsutomu Koizumi and WFP Representative and Country Director Marc-André Prost.

Emergency food stocks will be provided to the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare as the national agency mandated with overseeing disaster relief and improving social welfare, with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) coordinating targeting and distribution in times of needs.

Ambassador Tsutomu Koizumi announced Japan’s emergency food assistance and recovery support to vulnerable communities affected by crises such as flooding and food shortages due to recent inflation and depreciation of domestic currency at WFP’s office in Vientiane today. 

WFP plans to procure 440 metric tons of rice and 90 metric tons of canned fish produced in Japan, and work with the Lao authorities to distribute the food to approximately 38,000 people affected by disasters. Japan is a regular contributor to Lao PDR’s efforts in emergency preparedness and response, including addressing the urgent needs of communities impacted by disasters. 

The funds from the Government of Japan’s Food Aid Programme for this initiative amounts to approximately USD 1.3 million. 

“This project is particularly important and has an impact as it will also provide assistance in case of food shortages during the lean season,” said Tsutomu Koizumi, Ambassador of Japan to Lao PDR. “I sincerely hope that this project will be a help during difficult time for vulnerable communities. Japan, as a strategic partner of Laos, is committed to support enhancing Laos’ resilience through cooperation with various organizations such as WFP.” 

Seasonal flooding and food shortages during the lean season intensify food insecurity in rural areas of Lao PDR. The Government of Lao PDR works with support from WFP to address both the immediate and long-term impacts of such emergencies.

The project is part of WFP’s broader strategic plan to enhance food security, reduce malnutrition, and improve resilience in disaster-prone areas. Beyond meeting immediate needs, this initiative strengthens local disaster response systems in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare.

“WFP is grateful for Japan’s generous support, which comes at a time when climate-related challenges are intensifying and push hundreds of Laos families to the edge, like we’ve seen this past monsoon season. Japan’s contribution will ensure that these families don’t go hungry when disaster strikes,” said Marc-André Prost, WFP Representative and Country Director. 

This initiative complements broader efforts to strengthen Lao PDR’s social protection systems and aligns with the Government’s National Social Protection Strategy and the National Strategy on Disaster Risk Reduction.

KPL

ຂ່າວອື່ນໆ

    •  Lao Women’s Union at Party Central Office Marks 70th AnniversaryGeneral

      Lao Women’s Union at Party Central Office Marks 70th Anniversary

      7/18/2025 3:19:28 PM

      The Lao Women’s Union (LWU) at the Party Central Office held a commemorative ceremony on July 17, 2025, to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the organization’s founding (July 20, 1955 – July 20, 2025). The event honored the Union’s historic role in national development and women’s empowerment.

    • Golden Throat: Another Success at Lao-Viet Expo 2025General

      Golden Throat: Another Success at Lao-Viet Expo 2025

      7/18/2025 1:32:34 PM

      Director of Nakornluang Pharma Export-Import Sole Co., Ltd., Mr Soukchaleun Duangphaya proudly announced the second showcase of GoldenThroat Cough Relief Lozenges at Viet-Lao Expo 2025, following its acclaimed debut in Laos.

    • Flash Floods Devastate Ngern District, Cutting Off Major HighwayGeneral

      Flash Floods Devastate Ngern District, Cutting Off Major Highway

      7/17/2025 9:54:36 PM

      Severe flooding struck Ngern District, Sayabouly province overnight from July 16 to 17, 2025, following hours of continuous heavy rainfall. Flash floods swept through Thong Village, Homsai Village, and Pakkaen Village, causing widespread disruption and damage.

    • Vientiane Conducts Flood Disaster Response Training with Support from Chinese PartnersGeneral

      Vientiane Conducts Flood Disaster Response Training with Support from Chinese Partners

      7/17/2025 3:15:41 PM

      The Prevention and Disaster Response Police Department of Vientiane, in collaboration with the Chinese Foundation 1628 Rescue Unit and the "Nak Noy" Underwater Search Team, conducted a joint training exercise on flood disaster response and social assistance at the Hum Reservoir in Nasaythong District, Vientiane.

    • Party-Government Recognizes Women as a Key Force in National TransformationGeneral

      Party-Government Recognizes Women as a Key Force in National Transformation

      7/17/2025 3:09:56 PM

      The Party and Government of the Lao PDR have reaffirmed the vital role of women as an essential driving force in the nation’s new era of transformation. Lao women are increasingly seen as courageous, capable, and intelligent contributors to national development, while also preserving the country’s rich culture and traditions.


Top